KNYSNA NEWS - Forty-nine Knysna residents have graduated with an NQF Level 3 qualification in plumbing hand and assistant handyperson skills, equipping them to help improve the water and sanitation services in informal settlements while creating opportunities for future employment.
The graduates completed the accredited training programme through a partnership between the Knysna Municipality, the Asivikelane Campaign, the Development Action Group (Dag), the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (Ewseta), the International Budget Partnership South Africa (IBP SA), the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) and Africa Skills College in George.
Each graduate received a fully equipped toolbox, enabling them to immediately put their new skills to use.
The graduation follows the recent signing of a memorandum of understanding between Knysna Municipality and Dag through the Asivikelane Campaign to strengthen basic service delivery in informal settlements across the greater Knysna area.
As part of the partnership, the newly qualified plumbers will repair water leaks and carry out basic maintenance on water and sanitation infrastructure in informal settlements at no cost to the municipality. The initiative comes at a critical time as Knysna continues to deal with the impact of a declared water disaster and works to reduce water losses.
Beyond improving service delivery, the programme empowers local residents to play an active role in maintaining their own communities.
Faster repairs and better maintained facilities are expected to improve the quality of life for residents, while the graduates gain valuable practical experience that could lead to future employment opportunities.
Mayor Thando Matika congratulated the graduates and praised the partnership behind the initiative.
"This programme shows what can be achieved when government, development partners and communities work together. By investing in local skills, we are empowering residents to become part of the solution while improving essential services where they are needed most. These graduates are now equipped to make a meaningful difference in their own communities," he said.
The municipality acknowledged the contribution of the above-mentioned partners and others for making the initiative possible.
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