Education, Training and CSR
The primary focus of the competence centre (CC:ET&CSR) is the implementation of education and training programmes based on the German dual learning method.
Since 1985 the SAGCC, businesses and training institutions have partnered to create sustainable learning and employment opportunities for southern African youth. Approximately 4000 individuals have progressed into various successful careers after completing the Office and Business Administration Programme (a legacy dual training intervention known as Commercial Advancement Training Scheme). Building effective collaborations with industry, business partners, learning institutions, government departments, society, and other vital partners remains instrumental in achieving the centre's goals.
Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives are implemented with business partners to promote education and learning by collaborating with community organisations and schools. These activities enable the team to attract recruits from local communities, offer workshops for high school learners, and share learner profiles with member companies that may wish to recruit youth into learnerships and other alternative programmes. This way, we can further support our communities by creating a pipeline of suitable candidates.
The Dual Vocational Education and Training Method
The German Dual Vocational Training Methods combines theoretical (30%) with practical in-company (70%) learning. It is a proven path to career success, and the planned rotations within different company divisions and departments are a great way to understand how businesses operate comprehensively. By experiencing a range of roles and responsibilities, trainees can identify their strengths and interests and make informed decisions about their career path.
The activities of the Centre include, among others:
- Offering advice on vocational education programmes for the industry's network.
- Promoting cooperation between industry, local educational institutions, quality assurance authorities, and other key stakeholders.
- Providing a forum for networking and sharing information.
- Supporting the industry and affiliated networks in developing vocational education training programs to establish long-term employment and skills development opportunities.
- Coordinating CSR activities to promote commitment to learning and education.
Skills Expert Programme
The Skills Expert Programme was established to respond to the ever-changing industry skills needs by introducing relevant dual vocational programmes in South Africa and other AHKs in various countries. The Freight Forwarding, Logistics and Supply Chain Programme (NQF5) has proven this concept successful in South Africa. The desk will continue studying additional dual training programmes that respond to the industry skills needs.
