Minister kick-starts Youth Month with visit to an Apprenticeship Programme site

On Thursday, the Provincial Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers, visited Conradie Park, one of the department's flagship projects, where the department’s Apprenticeship Programme learners are placed for training. 

The Apprenticeship Programme offers a 3-year qualification of which 80% of the content is field-based training, particularly during year one of the programme. The learners are currently in year one and are placed at various project sites for experiential learning and concludes in July. During year two, and in partnership with FET College Industries Education and Training Institute (IETI), the syllabus focuses on a wide range of accredited modules. 

The programme caters for 100 youths who are incentivized with a monthly stipend. Speaking to the Minister was 23-year-old Jordan Samuels who described the programme as something she holds dear to her heart. “I’m grateful to have received this opportunity as it allows me to enhance my skills to hopefully one day join my father in his carpentry business. I grew up watching my dad as a child with a keen interest. Now the Western Cape Government has given me a chance to obtain a formal qualification in this sector and pave the way for my future.”

During the month of June, the Minister will be visiting other projects and youth empowerment initiatives that the Department of Infrastructure have across the province.

Minister Simmers reflected on his visit by saying; “It excites me when I see our youth members take up the empowerment opportunities that we have made available for them. This programme gives the learners access to education and accredited training that could lead to a recognized qualification through trade testing. Through these initiatives, we are making sure that we are growing the next generation of the infrastructure cycle.”

There are 14 learners placed at the Conradie Park project, these projects are the ideal conduit for apprenticeship experiential learning and practical training. 

“The programme allows learners to access economic opportunities beyond the project by self or formal employment or further learning. The implementation of these projects is made possible by partnerships with SETA, FET & TVET colleges, and the three spheres of government. A full complement of public and private partnership” concluded Minister Simmers.