Skills Development

The Vocational Training Centre for Motor Mechanics was officially opened on February 3rd 2009, by the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Joyce Mabudafhasi. The course which is MerSeta approved, offers opportunities for underprivileged and previously unemployed young adults, to gain employment after completion. The workshop, which is equipped with the necessary tools and machinery, is dedicated to the training of up to ten apprentices in Motor Mechanics.

Our tutors are very proud of their students who pass the Level 1, Motor Mechanics, Extended Course (6 months). The extended course was put in place to ensure that the students become comfortable with the use of the English language, in it’s written and spoken form, in order to pass their theoretical exams, which take place at the College of Cape Town. We also teach them the basic skills needed to seek employment.

We are very grateful to BMW for accepting a number of our graduates for further training. They are now fully-fledged BMW mechanics and have been employed by this reputable company.

In the last 11 years since 2009 we have trained more than 100 students! A number of them are employed by big companies like BMW, Ford and AutoWorks, others work in smaller workshops or are self-employed. They all use the skills we have taught them to make a living for themselves and support their families. 

In 2009, iThemba Labantu added the Solar Technician Training Facility to the Vocational Training Centre. The solar industry in South Africa is ever growing, as is its demand for skilled professionals, capable of installing the required solar panels. Our tutor takes on up to 10 apprentices at a time to complete the 6 month Solar Installation and Plumbing course. In this case the potential apprentices need to present a grade 9 (or higher) school certificate to be eligible to apply for this course. In most cases, the men and women that take part in the course come from very poor backgrounds. This course teaches them the skills and gives them the opportunity to start up their own business or heightens their chances of finding employment in this field. On completion of the course the students are handed a certificate, which may up their chances of finding employment.

iThemba Labantu proudly offers in-depth computer training to members of the community of Philippi. Since its opening in 2007, the computer school has expanded from 10 to 18 computers. The head of the computer department, teaches basic computer skills, using some of the commonly used programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Parallel to this, the students are also taught basic time management skills and receive guidance for using the Internet and email as tools to search and apply for current job opportunities, focusing on the importance of compiling a professional and relevant CV. Anyone is eligible to apply for the computer course, as long as they are dedicated to learning and are prepared to attend classes on a regular basis. On completion of the course the students are handed a certificate, which may improve their chances of finding employment.