The City of Cape Town has taken a remarkable step to empower young, ambitious women through its Apprenticeship Programmes. These programmes have recently led to the permanent employment of a group of skilled handywomen in the City. This is a significant milestone for these women, who have worked hard to complete their apprenticeships and secure long-term careers.
City’s Mayoral Committee Member Commends Determined Women
Alderman Theresa Uys, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Corporate Services, recently met with these women and commended them for their positive attitudes and commitment to their goals. Despite the hardships they faced during their apprenticeships, these women displayed enthusiasm and tenacity to thrive in their chosen career paths.
Outstanding Women Who Completed Apprenticeships
Amongst the group of outstanding women who have completed their apprenticeships are Makabongwe Sibanda, Faheemah Marthinus, Ntshepiseng Rametsi, Anganathi Tsholeka, and Unathi Mehlomakulu. Makabongwe completed a two-year Electrical Apprenticeship programme and now works in the City’s Facilities Management department. Faheemah, a single mother from Blue Downs, successfully concluded a Carpentry Apprenticeship programme. Ntshepiseng, from Kuils River, also completed a Carpentry Apprenticeship programme and now serves in the City’s Recreation and Parks department. Anganathi finished a two-year Plumbing Apprenticeship programme and now works at the City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate. Unathi completed a three-year Engineering Apprenticeship programme and has been appointed as a Senior Handywoman within the City’s Water and Sanitation directorate.
Apprenticeships and Their Benefits
In South Africa, apprenticeships are funded by the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) and provide practical and theoretical training in specific trades. After completing an apprenticeship and passing a qualifying exam, individuals receive a national artisan or trade qualification that helps them secure employment as skilled artisans in the government or private sectors. Apprenticeships not only provide a nationally recognized qualification but also enable individuals to gain practical work experience while earning a stipend.
Requirements for Apprenticeships
The City of Cape Town offers apprenticeships in various trades, including engineering-related fields such as diesel mechanics, petrol mechanics, refrigeration, electrical, welding, auto electrical, and spray painting, and construction-related fields like plumbing, carpentry, bricklaying, and painting. The City plans to advertise for the next intake of apprentices later this year, with the programme set to begin in early 2024. Requirements for these apprenticeships include a Senior Certificate (Grade 12 / Matric) with technical subjects or an Engineering / Construction N3 or NCV4 qualification.
The City of Cape Town’s Apprenticeship Programmes have provided a significant opportunity for young, ambitious women to secure permanent employment within the municipality. The success stories of these skilled women serve as a testament to the effectiveness of such initiatives in empowering individuals to reach their full potential and contribute significantly to the workforce.
