Celebrating 25 Years of Productivity and Growth with the Workplace Challenge Programme

Productivity SA and the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition will celebrate the 25-year anniversary of the Workplace Challenge Programme (WPC) on June 30, 2023. The event will take place at the Accolades Boutique Hotel in Midrand, with 150 distinguished guests from various sectors in attendance.

Empowering SMEs for Global Competition

The WPC has provided support to 3,000 small, medium and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa’s nine provinces, employing over 50,000 people. The programme’s impact is evident in its ability to empower participating companies to compete globally and promote employment security through sustained growth.

Driving Productivity for Economic Growth

Productivity is an essential driver of long-term competitiveness, business success, economic growth, and the alleviation of unemployment, poverty, inequality, and exclusion. The WPC aims at fostering productivity within strategic economic sectors, as identified in the Sector Master Plans.

Prioritizing Inclusion and Empowerment

The WPC prioritizes the participation of historically disadvantaged individuals and regions, supporting Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment through initiatives such as Special Economic Zones, Industrial Parks, and Black Industrialist interventions.

Celebrating Partnerships and Successes

The anniversary event will serve as an opportunity to reflect on the successes achieved through WPC interventions and the partnerships that have played a crucial role in the programme’s journey. The proposed program includes opening remarks, a message of support, and a keynote address, as well as a video presentation and messages of support from stakeholders.

Continuing to Drive Growth and Transformation

As Productivity SA’s flagship initiative, the WPC strives to establish a productive and globally competitive economy by enhancing the competitiveness and sustainability of enterprises within priority sectors. The programme aligns with the Sector Master Plans, preserving existing jobs while creating new, productive, and decent employment opportunities.

Acknowledging Valuable Partnerships

The WPC’s success is a result of the invaluable contributions made by various partners over the years. The programme serves as a catalyst for long-term growth and transformation, propelling South Africa towards a more prosperous future.