The head of the vocational training center, Reason Katsangu, emphasizes that opening such a facility in one of the poorest communities in South Africa is a major challenge. “We don’t take it lightly that we are changing the lives of these young people and their families.
One of the students, Dimakatso Makalapa, took to the podium to thank the donors and NCG for the opportunity to graduate as a plumber. “After graduating from high school, I sat at home for two years with no prospect of further education and when this school opened, I knew I had to take this opportunity to better my life,” she said.
It is well known that South Africa has one of the highest unemployment rates in the country. The extended unemployment rate is over 40%, and in rural areas such as Bloempoort this figure is even higher. This is partly due to the lack of access to further education and/or skills training, as well as the lack of employment opportunities. “The opening of the vocational school is a further expression of our commitment to achieving our vision of educating healthy, responsible and employable South Africans,” said NCG CEO, Dr. Hugo Tempelman.
At the vocational training center, learners are taught various practical skills and can acquire qualifications in plumbing, carpentry, painting, bricklaying and electrical work.
The cooperation between the Hugo Tempelman Foundation and the Postcode Lottery Germany and their involvement in this project will make a significant contribution to maintaining operations for the first three years. After that, the facility should be financially independent. Thank you very much!
