A Successful Arts and Culture Management Training in Ceres | Western Cape Government

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A Successful Arts and Culture Management Training in Ceres

24 October 2014

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) presented accredited arts and culture management training for 30 people in Ceres from 20 to 22 October 2014. Trainees comprised 15 beneficiaries of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and 15 individuals working for various NGOs in the Witzenberg area. The Arts and Culture Management at Community Level course was designed and run by North West University and is accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

Elton Bocks, an EPWP beneficiary, said the course exposed him to the importance of the performing and non-performing arts, and how to secure effective community participation. “The training helped me to better understand how the arts can assist and empower communities, scout for raw and unseen talent, and potentially create work opportunities,” he said.

Hannetjie du Preez, DCAS Chief Director of Cultural Affairs, encouraged participants to make good use of what they had learned when she handed over their certificates. “You are now well equipped to provide assistance and guidance to small community arts and culture organisations and assist them with their business and programmes,” she said.

Deputy Executive Major of Witzenberg Municipality Councillor Adams welcomed the way inhabitants of the area had been empowered to manage arts and culture programmes responsibly. 

Lyndsay Cader, an EPWP beneficiary currently assisting with marketing the Suidoosterfees, was grateful for the opportunity. “This is a great tool to improve myself and my immediate work environment. Speaking as a young person in South Africa, I can say that programmes such as the EPWP give us a sense of hope and opportunity.”

DCAS will continue to support arts and culture by empowering people with appropriate training. We encourage participants to utilise their skills for the benefit of their communities in order to promote a more creative Western Cape, BETTER TOGETHER.

Media Enquiries: 

Annerie Pruis-Le Roux
Acting Head of Communication Service
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 9730
E-mail: annerie.pruis-leroux@westerncape.gov.za