Northern Cape launches tyre and suspension learnership for unemployed youth
The first cohort of trainees attended the launch of the Tyre and Suspension Programme along with officials and the HOD of the Department of Roads and Public Works, Dr Steven Jonkers.
Image: Supplied / Department of Road and Public Works
THE NORTHERN Cape Department of Roads and Public Works (DRPW), in partnership with the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA), recently launched a 12-month Tyre and Suspension Learnership Programme at the Teachers Training Centre in Kimberley. The initiative will benefit 100 unemployed young people across the province.
DRPW spokesperson Zandisile Luphahla said 20 participants would be selected from each of the five districts.
“The programme is designed to build technical competence through the Tyre Repair and Maintenance Level 2 and Suspension Sub-Assembler NQF Level 3 skills programmes,” he said.
He added that participants would receive a monthly stipend for the duration of the accredited training programme, which consists of 30 percent classroom learning and 70 percent practical training.
“Practical training will take place at the various departmental workshops and at selected private tyre-repair companies. This learnership represents a significant investment in youth empowerment and skills development at a time when the province continues to confront high levels of youth unemployment.”
Luphahla said participants would be trained to inspect and service tyres; perform wheel balancing, puncture repairs, mounting and demounting; conduct undercarriage suspension diagnosis, suspension repair and replacement; and carry out steering geometry, brake and battery checks, among other skills.
“The Tyre and Suspension Learnership Programme provides vital, market-relevant skills in tyre and suspension maintenance – areas aligned with industry needs in vehicle maintenance, fleet services, logistics and transport,” he said.
Youth job-creation programme
The head of department, Dr Steven Jonkers, encouraged the first intake – comprising 14 males and six females from the Frances Baard District – to seize the “golden opportunity”.
“The future is in their hands. As government, we are committed to transforming the lives of unemployed youth. The programme will be rolled out to the other districts of the province,” Jonkers said.
The MEC for Roads and Public Works, Fufe Makatong, stated that the provincial government remained committed to creating jobs, improving the livelihoods of communities and working with partners from the private sector.
“This initiative will ensure that participants become entrepreneurs who will set up their own businesses after completing the programme,” Makatong said
“The DRPW reaffirms its commitment to youth development, economic inclusion and the creation of sustainable pathways to employment. Through strategic partnerships – including our ongoing collaboration with merSETA and private-sector tyre-service companies – we will continue to implement programmes that equip young people with the skills needed to participate meaningfully in the economy of the province,” she added.