Sibanye-Stillwater has undertaken the transformation of its Brakpan Precious Metal Refinery (PMR) into a dynamic training hub tailored specifically for the youth of Ekurhuleni. This initiative marks a pivotal step in harnessing the region’s potential by offering invaluable skills and opportunities to its young population.
With this visionary endeavor, Sibanye-Stillwater not only redefines the purpose of its infrastructure but also paves the way for a brighter future for the youth in the Ekurhuleni area.
The training hub has been launched in partnership with Forge Academy & Labs, an education organisation focused on training students for occupations that rely on next-generation technology.
Its teaching methodology is modelled on the Finnish pedagogy of education to equip youth to actively participate and perform in the job market, empowering them to have impactful and successful careers in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It is a SETA-Accredited Academy and have established relationships with best-of-breed partners locally and abroad to deliver quality and proven technologies and learning content to our clients and students.
The training centre is kicking off with two 12-month programmes offering certification courses in Amazon Web Services with Business Analysis, and Community Construction.
“Bringing this type of training to people without them having to travel to places like Sandton, Randburg or Pretoria is revolutionary. You don’t have to travel far to get these qualifications because now it’s in your community,” said Forge Academy’s COO, Tariq Shurmah.
The initiative forms part of the PMR’s community youth development and empowerment programme, and the cohort of 10 students for each course has been drawn from the local communities of Mzumbe/Reedville, Wright Park and Kwa Mkhancwa.
Forge Academy’s programme is more than just a series of workshops; it is a platform for collaboration and shared learning.
Amazon Web Services with Business Analysis
In this course, students will earn international and local certifications. The business analysis component is rated at an NQF Level 5 and is accredited through the MICT SETA.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is an international cloud practitioner certification.
Forge Academy is possibly the first training organisation in South Africa to combine the AWS and business analysis certification in one course. This gives graduates the advantage of analysing data in the cloud and sharing relevant insights with their colleagues.
Community Construction
This comprehensive programme will give participants hands-on experience across various disciplines, including bricklaying, plumbing and electrical wiring. Among the aims is to provide course participants with an integrated understanding of all aspects of construction.
Course graduates will earn a full SETA-accredited qualification.
With its exceptionally high graduate placement rate, Forge Academy’s blend of practical and theoretical learning is undoubtedly delivering for its students and their employers.
Congratulating the students for applying for the programme, and coming through the rigorous selection process, Forge Co-founder and CEO Craig Clutty, said: “As you embark on this journey, remember that you are not just students; you are pioneers. You are the architects of Africa’s future, the innovators who will harness technology to transform our continent. The road ahead will be challenging, but it is within those challenges that you will find your greatest opportunities.
“In conclusion, let this journey be one of discovery, innovation, and impact. The support from Sibanye-Stillwater is a remarkable gift, but what you do with this opportunity will define the legacy you leave for Africa and the world.”
