established to provide training with the sugar industry. However later broadened its scope to include other sectors.
Today it trains around 4 000 artisans in skills related to fields of diesel mechanics, welding, boiler making, electrician, and construction, among others.
The visit was part of our undertaking as the Kwa-Zulu Natal Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to work with training centres and private sector players to increase the capacity and skills development of artisans. KZN Public Works and Infrastructure also has its own program of developing artisans under EPWP and therefore the joint initiative becomes organic and also extends to include TVET colleges.
Currently provincial government has a severe shortage of qualified artisans which means that the mandate of maintaining provincial government buildings and assets is not realized to its fullest extent.
Through such initiatives, this shortage can be addressed while creating more job opportunities for young people in this province.