Cape Town - The Master Builders Association of the Western Cape (MBAWC) is offering people in the Western Cape the opportunity not only to attain a nationally recognised qualification for free, but to also gain employment and earn while they learn.
One of the ways in which the organisation is doing so, is by providing those who have passed grade 12, with maths as a subject, the chance to obtain a Certificate in Construction Supervision. The opportunity is also open to those who have not achieved this academic level, but who undergo psychometric tests that prove their suitability for the course.
This four-year course, approved by South African Qualifications Authority, will result in a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level IV qualification (equivalent to a diploma from a technikon).
Recognising that health and safety is a key requirement in the sector, the MBAWC is, for the first time, also offering a SAQA approved Certificate in Construction Health and Safety. Entry into this two-year long programme requires a grade 12, preferably with maths.
"The high costs of tertiary education, as well as limited places at institutions of higher education, has meant that many school leavers have fewer options to acquire the skills required for employment beyond that of a menial level,” said Tony Keal, group skills facilitator at the MBAWC - a registered trade association for employers in the building industry.
“Generally we enable one group of ten people to undertake the course each year, but because it has been so successful, we are making it available to a second group this year. There is a shortage of skilled foremen and artisans in both Cape Town and the entire country."
The MBAWC hopes these courses will go a long way to solving the shortage.
“What’s more, they will help open people’s eyes to the fact that a career in the building industry offers opportunities for growth and is potentially highly lucrative,” he said.
Full funding for both courses is provided the MBAWC’s skills and education trust. To apply for either opportunity, simply send a one page CV to info@mbawc.org.za.