WITH South Africa’s maritime industry making up 3.5% of the world’s seaborne trade and its coastline welcoming 1 500 ships on any given day, there is plenty of room for more women to thrive in the ocean’s economy.
This was the message from Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mduduzi Manana, to 75 female school pupils from Richards Bay, eShowe and Melmoth.
Manana was hosting a tour for the teens at the Port of Richards Bay on Tuesday to promote the ‘Women in Scarce Skills’ programme, and encourageg the young women to study for careers in the maritime industry.
‘As we celebrate Women’s Month, it is fitting that we raise the profile of initiatives targeting the emancipation of girls,’ said Manana.
‘It will be remembered that before the hard-earned democratic dispensation in 1994, a woman was erroneously perceived as incapable of occupying positions in certain career fields such as aviation, mining, the maritime sector and engineering.
‘We need to provide skills in certain areas required by the economy. The transport sector is the cornerstone of the economy,’ Manana said.
‘Government has identified the maritime industry as a scarce skill area and is prioritizing this sector through Operation Phakisa, targeting the ‘blue economy’.
‘The initiative represents a comprehensive approach which identifies the shortage of skills and put in place a programme to train young students, with a focus on females who have been neglected in the industry.’
Richards Bay Port Manager Preston Khomo applauded the Deputy Minister for having brought the initiative to the Bay port.
‘Our port is celebrating 40 years of existence. It is the biggest and richest port in the country.
‘We trust that the exposure today will assist you in shaping successful career paths,’ Khomo told the pupils.
Umfolozi TVET College Principal Sam Zungu said the college has introduced maritime studies in response to the economic needs of the country.
‘We are also opening a school in Richards Bay to offer maritime courses.’
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
