On 6 February, Kumba Iron Ore, at its Kolomela Mine, held an event to welcome its new skills development learners who are systematically changing their lives through the mine’s Skills Training Programme.
This programme offers the local residents of Tsantsabane the opportunity to uplift their lives and build their futures through necessary knowledge and work readiness programmes. Areas of study include carpentry, upholstery, masonry, welding, brick laying and cabinet making.
Each field offers a unique and comprehensive programme that provides learners with a proper platform to learn, grow to increase their future job opportunities or even start their own business.
The 2014 Skills Training Programme now consists of 60 learners with over half of them being female. The learners were all placed in their respective courses according to their choice of skill. By the end of the year, hopefully all 60 will be skilled and ready to begin their lives anew.
The learners couldn't be any more excited:
Obakeng Moncho, who is now studying carpentry says, “I am so happy to be given an opportunity of training and enhancing my skills for a better future with Kolomela mine. From this I would like to gain more experience so that I can start my own carpentry business one day and reduce unemployment in the area”.
Chantelle Tlhageng, who is now studying welding says, “I am very excited as this is a great opportunity for me and it is something I have always wanted. I would like to complete the Skills Training Programme in order to become a well-known entrepreneur within Tsantsabane and create job opportunities and skills in my community.”
Rozanne Witbooi,现研究砌体说,“I am very excited and enthusiastic about the Skills Training Programme and I will always be willing to learn more and give my best in all that is taught. After completing the programme I would like to take my skills and go add value and work for Kolomela mine.”