The City’s efforts to create employment opportunities for young people have been fruitful. The Economic Development Unit (ECOD), through a partnership with Business Processing Enabling South Africa, has provided 350 youth with training in the contact and call centre industry. This is being done through the Work Readiness Training Programme within the contact and call centre industry.

On 24 May, officials from ECOD visited a contact centre that services international companies to gauge the progress of a cohort of trainees.

Immaculate Ntuli, 23, a beneficiary of the programme said she has been given a wealth of experience that will open doors for her. She said the opportunity has allowed her to be the breadwinner for her family. 

“Since I secured this job I have been able to support my family,” she said. 

Thulani Magwenyane from ECOD said the programme is a stepping stone for young people who have a qualification but lack experience. 

Through impact sourcing, candidates of the programme that come from disadvantaged backgrounds will be given preference to address socio-economic effects.