Rankin Skills Training (RST) held an Apprentice Recognition Ceremony in Pinetown, Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN). The purpose of this ceremony was to acknowledge apprentices and honour them for their outstanding achievements. 

The National Skills Fund (NSF) was invited to witness its impact on RST’s apprentices and RST as a whole. The NSF approved R13 million funding to RST for the Apprentice Diesel Mechanic Training Programme, for 42 months from the 11th of October 2022 to the 30th of April 2026.

With this partnership, NSF will be able to bridge the gap between education and employment, by empowering the apprentices to transition smoothly into the workforce. RST’s apprenticeship programme involves mentorship from a group of reputable host companies, including Sclanders Mech, Kalmar Industries, Propshaft Ace, Old Lady & Son, Phinda Game Reserve to list a few. The training structure is designed to provide a well-rounded experience for the apprentices. They spend a dedicated 6 months at the Trade Test facility, focusing on theoretical training. Afterwards, the apprentices engage in an extensive 30-month practical training phase within the host companies. This combination of theoretical and hands-on training ensures a comprehensive and practical skill set for the apprentices as they prepare for their future careers.

Sixteen NSF beneficiaries received recognition awards for the Diesel Mechanic Top Achiever 2023. 

During its first enrolment phase, RST enlisted 60 apprentices for the Diesel Mechanics Training programme, with 60% of these individuals coming from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in KZN.

Matthew Napier, a 21-year-old from Pinetown, KZN, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity provided by the programme. He shared: “I can service a truck after only 6 months into the programme, and I am now employed. I am truly grateful for this opportunity.”

Sixty per cent of the funded apprentices come from rural areas of KZN. With the backing from the NSF, RST has provided these young individuals with valuable hands-on experience.

“RST aspires to mould 60 apprentices into skilled artisans, which is essential for realising the targets outlined in the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030. Together, we shape the future workforce that will drive our nation towards success,” said Marcel Rankin, CEO of RST.

NSF Deputy Director: Skills Development and Implementation for KwaZulu-Natal, Claudelle Dunn, spoke about how the NSF has positively impacted the beneficiaries of this programme. “The NSF-funded apprenticeship skills development programme by Rankin Skills Training had a significant impact on beneficiaries from informal settlements. Initially, 60% of the beneficiaries come from poor backgrounds. However, since participating in the programme, the funded learners were able to temporarily relocate out of the informal settlement to be close to their host employers, with the hope that they will get better opportunities after completion. This shift not only reflects the positive outcomes of the artisan training in skill development but also signifies an improvement in their living conditions.”

The beneficiaries expressed overwhelming joy and anticipation during the ceremony, showing their excitement and gratitude for the appreciation awards they received. Siyanda Nzuza expressed his utmost gratitude for receiving the Diesel Mechanic Top Achiever 2023 award. “I am so surprised and happy at the same time that the work I had put in is being recognised and I am grateful for that,” said Nzuza. 

South Africa’s NDP 2030 sets forth a vision for the country’s economic and social development. A critical component of this plan is the generation of 30,000 skilled artisans to meet the needs of various industries. The NSF plays an important role in supporting the NDP’s goals by providing funding and resources to initiatives such as RST, aimed at developing skilled artisans. 

Picture: From left Mathew Napier, Nonduduzo Mkhize, Melissa Ntaka, David Maja and Sibekezelo Qwabe at the Rankin Apprentice Recognition Ceremony in Pinetown, Kwa-Zulu Natal.

By Andisiwe Mkoyana a graduate intern at the National Skills Fund