Agricultural training hub launched in Empangeni
THERE is a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel for local youth from various communities around the City of uMhlathuze as Transnet and Bidvest Bank launched the Empangeni agricultural training hub facility on Thursday.
The facility is aimed at providing job opportunities in agricultural activities for unemployed youth.
The facility will train students from local communities for varying durations in AgriSETA-accredited courses spanning aquaculture, agriculture and hydroponics.
Speaking at the launch, Transnet group procurement officer Vuledzani Nemukula said through this strategic framework, aspiring entrepreneurs interested in the farming industry will have access to employment opportunities, thereby reducing unemployment in the area and promoting economic sustainability.
He further urged the community and local businesses to support this initiative by ensuring there is an offtake agreement of the goods for the project to be self-sustainable.
“All procurement opportunities in the project were advertised locally for local suppliers who are predominantly black-owned.
This elicited positive responses from local
emerging companies and 206 contractors submitted proposals for the various works advertised. A total of 29 contracts were awarded to local emerging contractors,” said Nemukula.
One of the students who benefitted, Lungelo Mkhwanazi said his love for agriculture and working the land made him resign from his
permanent retail job to join this programme.
“This opportunity that I have been afforded made me realise that, as humans, we need a farm, and this means a lot.
“I want to encourage our generation to consider getting involved in this field as it is one of the most important in making sure we address food security in the country,” said Mkhwanazi. This project underscores Transnet’s commitment to supporting localisation and industrialisation, and providing opportunities for black people, youth, women, small businesses, people with disabilities and people living in rural communities.