By DSD News.

In May 2024, the MEC for Social Development, Ms. Nontobeko Vilakazi, officially launched the Skills Development Programme in the John Taolo Gaetsewe (JTG) District. The initiative engaged 300 young people, aiming to equip them with practical skills for employment and self-sufficiency.

As part of the programme, 272 students were enrolled at Northern Cape Rural TVET Colleges, where they received training over a four-month period. The focus areas included Building, Civil Construction, and Engineering, with specific skills programmes covering Plumbing, Bricklaying, Plastering, Tiling, Carpentry, Painting, Light Motor Mechanics, and Welding.

In April 2025, officials conducted follow-up visits to program beneficiaries to assess impact and progress. Encouragingly, nine young participants have since been selected for a 12-month learnership with Ford, Toyota, and the Sol Plaatje Municipality Workshop. These placements provide valuable opportunities for the youth to apply their newly acquired skills in real-world settings.