This Monday, 19 August 2013 Alan Winde, Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, will officially launch the Western Cape Government’s single biggest intervention to address the critical shortage of artisans in our economy.
Through the Artisan Development Programme, which is being undertaken in partnership with the private sector, communities, Skills Education Training Authorities (SETAs) and FET Colleges, we aim to rebuild our artisan base. Artisanship is a good career choice for unemployed young people who are eager to learn and work. Artisans are also essential for the future of our economy, specifically if we are to boost growth in the province’s new competitive sectors such as Oil and Gas and the Green Economy.
Over the past few decades, artisanship has become a scarce skill, and the average age of the artisan currently stands at 55 years old.
At the official launch, Minister Winde will outline the objectives of the Artisan Development Programme. Trainees and the representatives of host companies who participated in the pilot phase will also attend.
Photograph opportunities will be available.
Details:
Date: 19 August 2013
Time: 10h00 to 11h30
Venue: Mac Brother/Sebenza Manufacturing, 32 Benbow Avenue, Epping
For media queries, contact:
Bronwynne Jooste
Spokesperson for Minister Alan Winde
Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism
Tel: 021 483 3550
Cell: 082 454 4365
E-mail: bronwynne.jooste@westerncape.gov.za
