KNYSNA NEWS - Twenty-two emerging contractors from Knysna received certificates last week for completing a course at the municipality's Contractor Technical Training, aimed at empo-wering emerging contractors.
The training was organised by Knysna Municipality in conjunction with the National Builders Registration Council, Seda, the Construction Industry Development Board and the Development Action Group.
At the intimate graduation ceremony at the Khayalethu Community Hall on Thursday 20 May, the mayor, Elrick van Aswegen, congratulated the contractors.
"The subjects covered included legislation to soils, foundations, super construction, roof construction, house development value chain, innovative building technology, practical completion and occupational health and safety," he said.
Van Aswegen said this type of initiative can only be undertaken in partnership with private and public organisations and thanked all the role players for "assisting these graduates to get a step closer to their dreams."
He said not having access to adequate, professional training is a big challenge facing emerging contractors. "We aim to provide them with that training through programmes like this - to not only train participants, but to empower and equip them so they may compete in the industry on an even footing."
He expressed trust that the contractors now have the knowledge, self-confidence and motivation to build their own success, and to help build an inclusive, innovative and inspired Knysna.
One of the recipients, Patience Maleza, told Knysna-Plett Herald she is happy that women in construction are recognised by Knysna Municipality.
"We as black women in business in Knysna have been sidelined for some time as we don't get business. But now this training shows us that we are recognised by the municipality," she said.
She said she is proud to be one of the recipients as she can now produce the documents when required. "We are hopeful that we will get jobs," she said.
The qualified contractors with their certificates.
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