UNEMPLOYMENT is one of the biggest problems in Mzansi.
And while many people complain about being jobless, others are making sure development programmes are formed to help those who are unemployed get skills and work.
So, Gauteng Economic Development MEC Tasneem Motara, in partnership with South African Mobile Device Distributors and Repairers Association and MICT SETA, formally unveiled the Cellphone Repair Training Programme in Akasia, Tshwane on Friday, 21 April.
The aim of the programme is to train young people in cellphone repairs to create job and business opportunities. The programme also focuses on training individuals in Gauteng to become capable and certified cellphone repair technicians.
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MICT SETA chairman, Simphiwe Thobela, said the state does not have unending money.
“We don’t have a huge pocket that is deep enough to keep on throwing money at the issues, but if we put money, we must ask ourselves is it reaping rewards? If the department is going to put in money, I am sure they will be interested in knowing what impact this is going to have,” he said.
Seda’s Enough Matli said they develop small businesses. “We are proud to say no one gets turned away from our doors,” he said.
Motara said she grew up in a township and the lifestyle is unique.
“As much as many of us have moved from townships and now live in green, leafy suburbs, we still go back to townships to do a lot of social and community work. It is only in the township that you can knock on your neighbour’s door and ask for one egg or a teaspoon of salt and when you return it, you return a bag of salt and six eggs,” she said.
The MEC said the programme is different compared to what is already out there because participants will get accredited training.
"They will not only be trained from a technical perspective but also from a business perspective. Majority, if not all of us here either have done it or know someone who has taken a broken cellphone to 'my friend' to quickly fix it.
"You know that it's cheap, but deep down you know it won’t last you for long anyway. That’s what we are trying to resolve, something that’s cost effective but is backed by credibility,” she said.
Motara thanked all the people who came together for the programme.
“We have millions of people who need jobs, who need opportunities and who need to have a reason to get up everyday and take a bath, get dressed and interact with the community,” she said.
One of the beneficiaries, Mahlohonolo Motsamai, thanked the MEC and partners.
“I don't talk that much, but I'd like to thank you for the opportunity you gave us to learn how to repair devices,” he said.
