Accredited Training for Emerging Building Contractors

Emerging Western Cape building contractors are looking forward to accredited training from the Department of Transport and Public Works on how to run their businesses more effectively. The course has a modular design so that participants can continue to actively run their construction businesses. Trainees will be attending five-day sessions every month over the next ten months.

Progress will be assessed through monthly written tests and again at the end of the training when participants present their portfolios of evidence. Those who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate of competence from the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA).

About the Programme

The course constitutes the foundation phase of the Department’s Siyenyuka Contractor Development Programme, and it supports the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). The programme is accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). It is open to contractors who have a Level 2 Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) rating, and preference is given to CIDB-rated contractors who have registered construction businesses and who have been active in the industry for at least two years. The training components are:

1. Enterprise development.
2. Building the construction business.
3. Applying innovative safety principles to the construction site.
4. Managing the construction site. Successful participants will gain 120 SAQA credits that they can use towards further study in a built environment field.

Looking Forward to the Training

For many participants this is a golden opportunity to receive valuable training without having to pay for it. Jeandré Deyers (30), owner of Masey J maintenance projects in Ottery, says the training will help her to grow her newly-established business.

“There are many things I don’t know about managing a construction business. I am confident that my business will grow from strength to strength. Soon, I will be able to draft business plans in order to apply for funding, meet all the requirements to compete for tenders, and submit building quotes,” she said.

Shuaib Julius (25), owner of Almagate Projects in Ravensmead, says he finds the training informative until now.

“I’m upskilling myself. I can use this training to further my company’s position and improve its margins. I will also use this opportunity as a platform to compete for tenders and create jobs for others,” he said.

Pieter Stevens, owner of PC Parts in Worcester, says he always wanted to learn more about construction, as it’s crucial for a business person.

"I don’t want to work on my business, but in my business. This training will give me that exposure,” he said.

The Department is committed to assisting participants to become viable business entities.

“We will assist participants to meet all the requirements to compete for tenders and submit building quotes, and a number of other important matters”, said Jo-Anne Beukes of the Department’s Contractor Development Programme.

“This will give them the knowledge and skills to develop and grow their businesses so that they can generate an income for themselves and potentially create job opportunities for others.”