Thabiseng Lentsoana could not contain her excitement after receiving a certificate for successfully completing her skills program learnership on Thursday, 15 October 2009.
The 29 year old Lentsoana who comes from Soshanguve in Tshwane was one of the 1 000 graduates who were given a training opportunity by the Gauteng Department of Health and Social Development to pursue their dream careers. She was in an 18 months contract with the former Gauteng Social Development where she worked as a social auxiliary under the supervision of social workers. She completed her learnership and was employed in July this year.
“I was very happy when I was called and told that I have a job. My life was a hand to mouth story since I depended solely in a disability grant. But it’s now things of the past,” she said.
After completing her matric in 2002, she went to various universities and did not complete her studies due to illness. She became devastated after completing a short course in administration at a certain college and discovered that it was a fly-by-night. For her, the department’s learnership was a breath of fresh air. She is now able to do what she enjoys, helping her community of Father Simangaliso Mkhatshwa Centre, formally known as Jabulani in Soshanguve.
Lentsoana urged young South African to explore the opportunities provided by government and “never give up”.
“Those with financial problems must try the learnership route and ensure that they don’t stop studying. I am currently doing social work course with University of South Africa. Thuto ga ena bogolo,” she concluded.
Among those present at the event included MEC for Health and Social Development Qedani Mahlangu who urged graduates to upgrade their skill to help in the development of Gauteng and implementing the mandate of government for the next five year term. She also highlighted the challenges in the nursing profession.
“As you graduate, you must know that the community is waiting for your services. You must go extra mile in your work. Let’s go back to basics of professional ethics so that we avoid negligence. It is not the question of resources, but our attitude that need to changed,” said MEC Mahlangu.
Around 1 000 participates ranging from among others, emergency care technicians, Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET), gardeners, cleaners, information communication technology, radiographers, basic and post basic pharmacy, health promotion, enrolled nursing, data captures, and social auxiliary work were given the certificates at the Johannesburg City Hall.
Issued by: Department of Health and Social Development, Gauteng Provincial Government
20 October 2009
Source: Department of Health and Social Development, Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.health.gpg.gov.za/)
