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More apprentices join vocational training at Kraatz Welding School

More apprentices join vocational training at Kraatz Welding School

The industrial training programme that teaches young apprentices the finer skills in welding, has just taken in eight more students. To date fourteen apprentices have successfully completed this basic training programme.

In partnership with the Young Africa Trust, the 20-week program which falls under Kraatz’ Welding School includes basic training in welding (theory and practical), as well as basic life skills inclusive of effective communication skills, decision-making and leadership competencies.

In addition to the technical skills, the programme also teaches the students the basic concepts in entrepreneurship.

Kraatz Human Capital Manager, Roberto January said “Vocational training plays a significant role in the future of our economy, as well as the future of industrial companies that need skilled technicians. We identified the need for vocational training which led us to purchase a welding simulator two years ago, as one of the first steps to give back to the community and contribute to the O&L Group purpose. “

The Young Africa Trust is an organization that provides life skills to young people. Kraatz is the trust’s partner to add value to the ‘Learn to weld’ programme by teaching the students how to infuse the skills they have acquired into their own circumstances and everyday life, and make a success.

O&L Group Director: Human Capital, Berthold Mukuahima said “Skills development is a critical pillar in the government’s Harambee Prosperity Plan and can indeed contribute significantly to curbing the high unemployment rate, and reduce poverty. Kraatz’ Welding School for which selected students participate at no cost, is but one of O&L’s contributions to assist the government.

Basic requirements for admission to the Kraatz Welding School include a Grade 12 certificate with good results in Mathematics and Physical Science. Applicants must be between the ages of 19 and 25. Applications are received and handled by the Kraatz human capital department.


In the picture, Kraatz Human Capital Manager, Roberto January (right) is joined by Yvette Bellens from Young Africa (2nd from right), Patrick Howarth (left): Learn to Weld Program Instructor/Facilitator , and Kobie Potgieter (2nd from left) – Kraatz Operations Manager: Marine & Offshore at the welcoming of the latest intake to Kraatz’s Learn-to-weld program. The new apprentices are Angelo Maasdorp, Emilia Ngaali, Emilia Eliaser, Linekela Matheus, Martha Kweenda, Nico Farmer, Reynold Augustus and Simon Paulus.


 

About The Author

Mandisa Rasmeni

Mandisa Rasmeni has worked as reporter at the Economist for the past five years, first on the entertainment beat but now focussing more on community, social and health reporting. She is a born writer and she believes education is the greatest equalizer. She received her degree in Journalism at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) in June 2021. . She is the epitome of perseverance, having started as the newspaper's receptionist in 2013.