South Africa’s economic development and the increase in infrastructure investment has created a growing demand for trained and qualified artisans. However, the lack of appropriate training capacity, exacerbated by apartheid and an era of discriminatory government policies, has left a dearth of young skilled artisans.
Established in 2009, the Tiso Foundation Apprenticeship Bursary offers artisanal training to disadvantaged, but talented young people, and prepares them for jobs critically required in our growing economy. Partnering with the Artisan Training Institute (ATI) — accredited with the Mine Qualifications Authority (MQA) and MERSETA — the Foundation identifies and supports learners who demonstrate sound determination and ability.
Beneficiaries of the programme — black youths between the ages of 18 and 34 years — are selected through a rigorous process and directed into a stream of training best suited to their aptitude and capabilities. Over the next five years, the programme aims to train 500 skilled and qualified artisans, of which at least half will be black women.
These trades continue to be the priority skills required in the market.
Rigorous assessment of attitude, capabilities and aptitude to identify the most promising candidates.
Theoretical and technical training at ATI, accredited with MQA and MERSETA.
Placement with a relevant company to sharpen skills and gain valuable work experience.
Final examination to become a fully certified and qualified artisan.
Integral to the success of the programme are partnerships with leading South African companies. In 2009, Tiso Foundation entered into a matched funding partnership with the Aveng Group CSI Trust, and from 2013 to date with Bell Equipment.
To date, this partnership has seen a total of 300 learners trained in fitting and turning, boiler making, welding and electrical trades. Many of the newly qualified artisans have returned to full-time positions in these companies.
Tiso Foundation together with ATI selects learners through a rigorous process that:
Assesses their attitude and capabilities
Directs them through a technical and support stream of training
Gives them the capacity to become employed, or start their own business
The program is designed to ensure delivery is based not only on high quality, relevant course material, but also on experimental and practical learning that compliments the content taught in the classroom.
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