Skills training empowers youth

TEN Madlanzini youth are benefitting from an agricultural training learnership programme rolled out by community skills development initiative, Beautiful Pillars Projects.
The project is driven by local businesswoman Nonhlanhla Ngonyama, who has earmarked a site in Madlanzini to erect a community skills centre which will provide learnership opportunities in plumbing, catering, agriculture and welding.
At the launch, local corporates and businesses pledged their support to the venture.
Foskor Richards Bay donated gardening equipment and tools, while Umfolozi TVET (Technical Vocational Education and Training) pledged their support and expertise to the skills centre.
Ngonyama encouraged the youngsters to take advantage of the programme and use the knowledge to pursue ventures as entrepreneurs and promote job creation in the agricultural sector.
The modules focus on plant production and students will participate in theory and practical training to enhance their skills.
‘While we need doctors, lawyers and other professionals, our youth must also also look at careers in the agriculture.
‘Our students have already established a vegetable garden at the Ingonyama Guest House property, where they are also utilising the venues for their classes.
‘We are looking at commencing with our skills centre construction by next month and are in need of sponsorships of building materials and equipment.’