Valuable Training for EPWP Beneficiaries

100 Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) beneficiaries are receiving training in community-level arts and culture management in Oudtshoorn from 30 March to 4 April 2014. The event was organised by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) in partnership with the Absa Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (KKNK). Graduates of the course are expected to become the arts and culture administrators and managers of the future.

The training is accredited by CATHSSETA (the Culture, Art, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority) and facilitated by Artéma, the Institute for Arts Management and Development at North-West University. In addition to learning about arts management, operational activities in the arts and managing community arts, participants have acquired valuable project management and strategic planning skills.

Beneficiaries say the training has been very interesting so far. Zikile Gxabala (26), who works in Cape Town at DCAS Library Services, says the knowledge and skills he learned about time management and self-discipline will assist him in his career. Mercea Douries (35), who works at the Togryers Museum in Ceres, is happy to learn more about the arts. “We’ve recently expanded a section at our museum and there are many visitors. This training will benefit me because it relates to my daily work,” she said. Theresa Cay, EPWP Coordinator at DCAS, told beneficiaries this training could open many doors if they make the most of it.

Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Dr Ivan Meyer will be handing over certificates to participants who successfully complete the training on 4 April. Eighteen EPWP beneficiaries registered as site-specific tour guides at the museums where they are employed will also receive certificates. The ceremony will take place at the South African National Defence Force’s Jack Hindon Auditorium, Park Ave, Oudtshoorn.