Document: Sol Plaatje Diamond Beneficiation Development Programme: In the Domain of Entrepreneurship as Learning Programme for Decent Work

The Sol Plaatje Municipality identified the need for the design and development of a programme focused on entrepreneurial, business and leadership skills. In line with strategy for Diamond Beneficiation and Local Economic Development in the Frances Baard District Municipality, with funding from National Skills Fund through the provincial Department of Basic Education, 50 students were selected onto an NQF 5 Certificate Programme with Da Vinci Institute. Through a work based challenge and modular assignments, the candidates need to demonstrate their competence with regard to the pre-defined learning outcomes.

 

On the 13th April 2011, Autumn Graduation Ceremony was held in Midrand at Bytes Conference Centre whereby students were graduating and Mr. Steven Ngubeni as Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Development Agency handed the certificates to the graduates.

 

In terms of National Skills Development Strategy (NSDS) III the programme made it possible for these 50 youths to have access to education and training opportunities that will enable them to acquire a qualification at Level 5 of the NQF. As result of this LED Unit of Sol Plaatje Municipality was at broad level be able fill in the learning gaps left by an incomplete or inadequate schooling for these learners and to enable learners to enroll on a programme leading to occupational success.