THE Coega Development Corporation (CDC) announced that on October 3, that it had welcomed 74 beneficiaries with disabilities from across the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, to commence their skills development training.
The National Institute for Development and Training (NID Training), in partnership with the Hospitality Academy and supported by the CDC, welcomed qualified applicants with disabilities to submit applications for the following recognised training courses, NQF level 4 professional cookery: 12-month course (October 3 to September 29, 2023) and NQF level 2 assistant chef: six-month course (October 3 to March 31, 2023).
Interviews and assessments were held from September 26 to 28, prior to the initiation of the two programmes on October 3. Classes officially started this week with a formal launch planned for later this month.
At least 30% of the learning for these programmes will be completed in class at Coega Human Capital Solutions (HCS) campus, and 70% will be on-site at approved workplaces. Both programmes are fully accredited by the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sports Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA).
The 74 beneficiaries will see a major improvement in their quality of life owing to this remarkable initiative.
Employment equity candidates with impairments, such as partial hearing or sight loss, psychological conditions, such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, and intellectual disability such as ADHD, ADD, moderate intellectual disability, dyslexia and chronic progressive diseases which include, diabetes type-1 and asthma, were given preference during the selection process.
NID Training NPC’s chief executive officer, Dr Lientjie van Rensburg, said, “We want to thank Coega Development Corporation and the National Skills Fund for going above and beyond to assist young individuals with disabilities.”
Cookery learner, Zibuko Qama, said, “I heard about the programme online and I’m glad for the chance and that it could be done for others as well.”
– ISSUED BY COEGA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
