- Siviwe School of Skills held its annual Market Day to showcase the students’ talents in crafting and entrepreneurship.
- Community members gathered in support, celebrating the skills that Siviwe learners are developing for their future careers.
- The school emphasizes job market readiness, helping students find purpose and direction.
It was that time of the year again at Siviwe School of Skills in Gugulethu when the learners had a chance to showcase their skills at their Market Day on Friday 25 October.
The market gives the public a glimpse of a behind-the-scenes view into what happens at the school and a chance to purchase some of the products.
The school accommodates mainly learners who cannot cope in the mainstream schools.
School principal Yolanda Lupondo described the event as a special day, particularly for the learners.
“Today is a market day where we allow our stakeholders and the public to see and buy the work that has been produced by their children,” she said.
“This is the work that they’ve done during the year. This event only caters to learners who are in the year (learners who are in their last year at the school).”
Lupondo stated that there are retail stores and supermarkets that offer their learners job opportunities. She said they aim to empower young children.
“Not all the children are good at academics. Some of them are good at doing handwork. Those who are not doing well in the mainstream schools the Department of Education is referring them here.”
Lupondo explained that after they complete school, some go to Further Education and Training (FET) Colleges, while others open their businesses.
Parent Thiza Mokoela said it is exciting for parents to see the work produced by their children. “The school changes the perception that the community has about the learners,” he said.
“As the community, we tend to underestimate the learners and call them names. But judging by the quality of the work they do, they are way further than anyone at the mainstream schools.”
He said in a country where the economy is not stable, schools such as Siviwe are vital.
One of the learners, Simanye Gigaba who does welding, stated he learnt so much at the school. He said his dream is to start his business and hire people. “I know almost everything about welding. We made most of the things that are in the workshop, which include braai stands, candle holders, pots, toilet roll holders, tap lockers and so on.”
