RICHARDS Bay Minerals has opened an exciting door of opportunity for a group of 35 youth from its host communities who are about to embark on an apprenticeship programme.
The technical training and development of the artisans-to-be will be facilitated through PMI Technical, who were represented by Dawie van der Merwe at a pre-induction gathering.
PMI will head the two and a half year training schedule, which will begin with induction at RBM on 1 August, and then move to Welkom at the end of August.
The fields covered include electrical engineering, fitting and turning, instrumentation and diesel mechanics.
In his address to the privileged young people, Moses Thokwane, General Manager: Mining at RBM, spoke about the importance of being committed to the programme.
‘This apprenticeship is the start of a something fantastic, an event which, for some people, leads the way to a new world where opportunity is waiting.
‘Some of us understand how to grasp the opportunities which will present themselves, and know how to turn them into something fruitful and successful.
‘Some of us don’t. So, today I talk to you about knowledge and opportunity.
‘It is not a great secret that knowledge is a huge differentiator.
‘It gives you an edge over others who have perhaps not had access to the privilege of knowledge.
‘Knowledge allows you to think, and it allows you to understand.’
No quick fix
Thokwane encouraged the youth to stand boldly and persevere.
‘In all your interactions with others, be respectful and honest.
‘There is no quick fix and the reality is that hard work pays off.
‘Never stop learning or asking questions, but above all go out there and make yourself, your families, your communities and all of us proud,’ he added.
Trainee apprentice Zinhle Mbuyazi (22) said this feels like a lifetime opportunity and she is happy that it will take her one step closer to her dream career of electrical engineering. ‘I am a bit nervous, but ready for the challenge.’
Nothando Gasa (30) said she was grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to start learning, while Romanius Maphumulo (32) said he feels blessed and is ready to make the most of this chance.
While admitting to be ‘a bit overwhelmed’, Lindo Mthethwa (17) said he too is excited about his prospects.
Nkonsenhle Nxumalo (25) said he is happy and ready to work hard in order to fulfil his dream of being an artisan.
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