Hisense South Africa has announced the commencement of a year-long learnership and skills development programme for 100 young people from the local community of Atlantis, located in the Western Cape.
This initiative targets unemployed youth aged 18 to 28, providing them with the opportunity to gain both theoretical training and practical work experience, culminating in a Sectoral Education and Training Authority (Seta) accredited qualification.
Participants will engage in full-time classes and workplace environments, ensuring they receive a comprehensive foundation for future employment.
Denise Rapitsi, CEO of the Youth Chamber of Commerce and Industry South Africa, stated, “This learnership is a catalyst for real economic participation. By enabling young people in Atlantis to gain accredited skills and hands-on experience, Hisense SA and its partners are tackling unemployment and opening doors to futures that our youth can build for themselves.”
The training encompasses not only basic manufacturing but also high-technology manufacturing and digital innovation, equipping participants with skills to compete on a global level.
Robin Murray, Hisense SA’s human resources group director, emphasized, “This initiative creates opportunities that expand access to education for young people by combining classroom learning with on-the-job training. A year-long learnership provides a pathway for equipping our youth with the skills and experience they need for a successful and fulfilling career.”
The programme will be facilitated by EduPower Skills Academy, a specialist training provider that will deliver academic components while ensuring learners gain relevant industry exposure.
Over the next year, participants will obtain formal qualifications and valuable workplace experience, bridging the gap between education and employment, which is crucial for empowering young people to enter the job market with a competitive edge, according to EduPower sales director Divan Barnardo.
Funded by Hisense SA, this programme aims to address youth unemployment by providing qualifications linked to real industry opportunities.
Murray concluded, “We look forward to seeing these 100 young people grow, succeed, and contribute positively to their families, their community, and the broader South African economy.”
This initiative is supported by the Manufacturing, Engineering & Related Services Education and Training Authority and the Wholesale & Retail Sector Education and Training Authority.