In celebration of Women’s Month, the City of Cape Town is casting a spotlight on a remarkable group of young and ambitious women who have secured permanent positions within the City as handywomen, following the successful completion of the City of Cape Town’s Apprenticeship Programmes.
These women’s journeys exemplify determination and a positive attitude towards learning, even facing challenges. The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Corporate Services, Alderman Theresa Uys, expressed her admiration.
‘I am happy that the City’s apprenticeship programmes could provide them with the stepping stone they needed to launch their professional journey with the City.’
These are just some of the success stories owed to the programmes:
- Makabongwe Sibanda, 27, hailing from Parklands, earned her place as a handywoman within the City’s Facilities Management department after completing the two-year Electrical Apprenticeship programme.
- Faheemah Marthinus, 24, a dedicated single mother from Blue Downs, joined the Facilities Management team as a handywoman following the completion of the two-year Carpentry Apprenticeship programme.
- Meanwhile, Ntshepiseng Rametsi, 23, from Kuils River, found her calling as a handywoman within the Recreation and Parks department, thanks to the two-year Carpentry Apprenticeship programme.
- Anganathi Tsholeka, 31, from Eerste River, secured a role as a special workwoman in the Water and Sanitation Directorate after successfully completing the two-year Plumbing Apprenticeship programme.
- Unathi Mehlomakulu, 24, of Gugulethu, achieved the position of Senior Handywoman within the Water and Sanitation directorate after mastering the three-year Engineering Apprenticeship programme.
These apprenticeships are funded by the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA), encompassing practical and theoretical training in select trades. Upon completion, individuals receive a nationally recognised artisan/trade qualification, qualifying them to work as skilled artisans in the public or private sectors.
Also read: City Health promotes breastfeeding awareness and support
Alderman Theresa Uys emphasised the benefits of these apprenticeships, stating, ‘An apprenticeship is hugely beneficial to individuals looking to attain a nationally recognised qualification while working and earning a stipend. This way they are able to go straight into practical training for their trade, which is what these women have chosen.’
‘Their apprenticeship opportunity eventually landed them with permanent employment at the municipality, at a young age, which will only benefit their career in the long run.’
The City offers apprenticeships in various fields, including engineering-related areas like diesel mechanic, electrical and welding, as well as construction-related fields such as plumbing and carpentry.
Prospective apprentices can anticipate advertising for the next intake of apprenticeships later this year, with the programme set to commence in early 2024. The City will communicate further details to the public closer to the launch.
Requirements for apprenticeships at the City of Cape Town include a Senior Certificate (Grade 12/ Matric) with technical subjects, or Engineering/ Construction N3 or NCV4.
Also read:
Picture: City of Cape Town
