Develop construction skills
2005-06-23
DUE to a critical shortage of skilled labour in die building industry, the Boland Master Builders Association initiated a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) project earlier this year.
Funding was obtained from the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) and the project is conducted in conjunction with Tjeka Training Matters, a training provider in the construction industry.
During the current phase of the project free RPL evaluation will be available to 900 candidates. The aim of the project is to evaluate building workers to determine his/her level of expertise and if it is found to be short of an acknowledged qualification, further training
will be provided to meet the required qualification.
The evaluation takes approximately three days (depending on the acquired skills of the candidate) and is conducted at the Paarl campus of Boland College.
RPL evaluation is available in Bricklaying, Plastering, Carpentry, Plumbing, Painting and Tiling. To date some 250 candidates have been evaluated and a large number of them are currently undergoing further training.
An added advantage of the project is that all the candidates also receive free training as First Aiders, Health and Safety Representatives and in general safety Induction.
A compulsory component of the project is that all participants will attend a HIV/Aids awareness programme.
Advantages of the RPL evaluation is that it is a stepping stone to further development, it provides access to higher job levels and access to job opportunities, action planning of training needs and recognition of existing skills and learning reduces training costs.
According to Deon Roux, President of the MBA Boland, the RPL project creates the ideal opportunity for employers to develop their employees to a higher level of competency.
“The newly established skills centre in the Boland will open the door to training and development of employees in the Boland and Overberg and due to its locations, is more accessible.
“We also have the full support of three of the major trade unions in the building industry who will promote the projects amongst their members. It is a win-win situation for all the parties.”
Persons who are interested in the RPL evaluation should contact Annemarie of Tjeka during office hours on 976-8057.
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