WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING, INTERNSHIPS AND LEARNERSHIPS
The Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons currently residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for Garden Route Skills Mecca Programme as listed below. Preference will be given to candidates with a qualification as categorised below. People with disabilities are encouraged to apply and those who previously formed part of these programmes are not allowed to re-apply. Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35 (classified as youth).
Programme and Entry Requirements:
Applicants will be selected based on the following sequentially prioritised criteria and the opportunities will be distributed across the Garden Route district (Hessequa, Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Bitou, Oudtshoorn and Kannaland):
1. Graduate Internship Programme
Persons with any NQF Level 6 Local or International Qualification in any field and want to do practical training.
Graduates with Tourism / Hospitality Qualification will be given preference.
Number of Opportunities: x35 Stipend: R6 000 p/m
2. Work Integrated Learning
Persons with a Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College N6 qualification; only those who require practicals in order to complete their diplomas.
Preference will be given to those with a Tourism/ Hospitality Qualification.
Number of Opportunities: x5 Stipend: R5 500 p/m
3. Learnership
Grade 12 certificate with Communication at NQF Level 4; and
Mathematical Literacy at NQF level 4.
Number of Opportunities: x20 Stipend: R5 500 p/m
For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Kayakazi Klaas at 044 803 1434, or Berma Losper at 044 803 1344 during office hours only (Monday to Thursday, 7:30 – 16:30 and Friday, 7:30 – 13:30). Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within two months after the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.
Closing Date: 06 February 2026 Notice number: 3/2026
Comprehensive Information Session Connects Buisplaas Community with Agricultural, Skills, and EPWP Opportunities
Media Release 29 October 2025
The Buisplaas Community Hall near Mossel Bay, yesterday, 28 October 2025, was a hive of activity as the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA), in partnership with the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) and the Health and Welfare SETA (HWSETA), hosted an Awareness and Information Session aimed at unlocking local economic opportunities.
Coordinator of the GRSM and Training Development at GRDM, Reginald Salmons, highlighted the work of the GRSM.
Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) representative at GRDM, Androlene Killian, shared information regarding EPWP opportunities.
The session provided residents of Buisplaas with direct access to key government and sectoral representatives, focusing on agricultural support, skills development, and employment programmes. The event was directed by Evon Mayekiso from the WCDoA.
The WCDoA team, including Jorita Van der Merwe and Ben Booysen, presented in detail about Agricultural Producers Support and Development initiatives, while Dr. Heidi Schlechter provided essential information on VETS animal health care. This information is crucial for local farmers and producers seeking to enhance their operations and maintain healthy livestock.
A significant portion of the session was dedicated to skills and development. Athenkosi Mata, a representative from the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) encouraged attendees to establish Non-Governmental- (NGO) and Non-Profit Organisations (NPO). Mata further explained that the SETA primarily provides opportunities and funding to registered organisations, not individuals. This highlighted a clear path for community leaders to formalise structures and access broader training funds.
Representatives from the GRDM furthermore outlined immediate opportunities available through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). GRDM’s Androlene Killian detailed that the training focuses, specifically on Law Enforcement Officer training and Early Childhood Development (ECD). In addition, Reginald Salmons, Coordinator of the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) and Training Development at GRDM, highlighted the work of the GRSM, noting the recent Drivers License Programme opportunities that were advertised. Salmons on behalf of the GRSM further committed to work closely with the Buisplaas community moving forward.
The WCDoA concluded the session with a vote of thanks, indicating that further engagements and follow-up activities in the Buisplaas area are already being planned.
Describing the initiative, Evon Mayekiso, Programme Director of the event, highlighted that “the engagement we witnessed in Buisplaas was exceptionally positive and it demonstrated a clear appetite for growth and development”. In addition, Mayekiso emphasised: “Our goal is to ensure that every community member understands the support structures available, whether it be for expanding an existing farm, starting a new NPO, or accessing job-readiness training”.
This session marks the beginning of intensified, ongoing collaboration between the Department of Agriculture and the people of Buisplaas.
Garden Route Skills Mecca Forum Strengthens Regional Collaboration to Tackle Youth Unemployment
Immediate release 07 October 2025
Last week, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) successfully revived the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) Forum, to strengthen collaboration among municipalities and stakeholders in advancing skills development across the district.
The forum brings together Skills Development officials from all seven local municipalities to coordinate efforts, share information, and take ownership of opportunities identified through the GRSM. This renewed collaboration marks a significant step towards institutionalising the Skills Mecca model and ensuring that the region’s skills development initiatives are aligned and impactful.
In his opening remarks, Thembani Loliwe, Chairperson of the Forum and GRDM Strategic Manager, highlighted the importance of a united approach to addressing one of the district’s most pressing challenges, which is youth unemployment.
“To strengthen the institutionalisation of the Skills Mecca in the region, it is vital that all municipalities work together to address youth unemployment, which currently stands at a staggering 62%. A regional approach to tackling this pandemic is key and aligns directly with the District Development Planning (DDP) model, which advocates for coordinated regional planning and joint efforts to address shared challenges,” said Loliwe.
He added that municipalities should view the Skills Mecca as a shared service, noting that GRDM and its local municipalities will work together to develop a shared service agreement. This will ensure that the Skills Mecca is not only a concept but becomes integrated into the budget processes of local (B) municipalities, as it already forms part of their Integrated Development Plans (IDPs).
“This platform will also ensure that local municipalities have first-hand access to information on all projects under the Skills Mecca and are included in decision-making processes,” Loliwe explained.
Loliwe further emphasised that the forum aims to improve communication with all stakeholders and provides a platform for meaningful contributions from partners in the skills ecosystem.
During the meeting, Reginald Salmons, GRDM Coordinator for Skills Development, presented both current and historical projects implemented under the GRSM. Representatives from each local municipality also showcased their respective skills development projects and programmes, highlighting local progress and challenges.
The meeting was well-attended by Local Economic Development representatives, Integrated Development and Skills Development Managers, and Coordinators from all municipalities across the district.
As part of the next steps, the Forum will develop a Terms of Reference (ToR) to formalise its operations, reporting structures, and rules of engagement. Additionally, all projects will be mapped across the district to avoid duplication and promote effective coordination.
The next Garden Route Skills Mecca Forum meeting is scheduled to take place from 19 to 20 November 2025, where members will continue strengthening regional cooperation to empower the youth and drive inclusive economic growth.
Media Release: Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism celebrates Tourism Month 2025
For immediate release 1 September 2025
Tourism Month, celebrated every September, highlights the vital role tourism plays in South Africa’s economy and communities.
In the Garden Route and Klein Karoo (GR&KK) region, tourism is a powerful driver of sustainable transformation, creating jobs, attracting local investment, and fostering a sense of regional pride. By promoting cultural exchange and showcasing the area’s rich heritage and traditions, tourism not only strengthens the local identity but also encourages responsible travel practices that preserve the environment and empower communities for future generations.
A basic intro of the GR&KK
The Garden Route and Klein Karoo (GR&KK) region is one of South Africa’s most breath-taking and diverse travel destinations. Stretching over 24,000 km from Witsand in the west to Plettenberg Bay in the east, this region is home to lush forests, pristine beaches, majestic mountains, and charming towns like Still Bay, Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Oudtshoorn, Calitzdorp, and Ladismith and more!
As a key tourism hub, the GR&KK offers something for everyone from thrilling outdoor adventures and rich wildlife to cultural heritage and culinary delights. Under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” the region continues to grow in ways that protect its natural beauty, celebrate its people, and create lasting opportunities for local communities.
Find out what the Garden Route & Klein Karoo has to offer or for more information, visit/contact:
Media Release: NSF visits GRDM to witness success of R36 million skills investment benefiting 400 people
12 May 2025
The Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Training Section received a visit from the National Skills Fund (NSF) Executive Committee from 8 to 9 May 2025. The visit formed part of their annual performance monitoring and oversight visits to beneficiaries. This follows the approval last year by the Director-General of the Department of Higher Education and Training, allocating R36 378 000 to the GRDM to benefit 400 beneficiaries over a period 31 month period.
During a brief ‘meet-and-greet’ session on Thursday with the NSF Executive Committee, the Municipal Manager of GRDM Monde Stratu, welcomed the team and highlighted the good working relationship that has been established since 2017. Stratu expressed his appreciation for the strong partnership between GRDM and NSF and thanked them for their continued financial contribution and support, towards skills development in the region. Following this, the NSF leadership continued to reflect and assess the progress of NSF projects in the region.
GRDM and NSF delegations during the Day 1 meet-and-greet session.
On Friday morning, the visit by the NSF continued as the GRDM Training Unit briefed the delegates on the performance of the NSF funded projects. Ald. Ndayi (Portfolio Councillor of the Corporates Services) thanked the NSF for the project and the positive impact of the program on the life of the beneficiaries. She motivated the learners on the program and encouraged them to remain positive and dedicated to complete it. During the same session, the NSF representatives also met with some of the Professional Cookery Learnership and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) students, who had the opportunity to share their experiences, skills gained and overall appreciation.
Following this, NSF leadership visited the African Skills Centre in Thembalethu, where they met and engaged with beneficiaries trained as professional cooks. The final stop was at Fancourt, where they interacted with beneficiaries working and training in the hospitality industry.
Programme: NQF Level 4, Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner (97542) x 100
Another Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative!
The Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons currently residing within the Garden Route district municipal area, to apply for training opportunities within the Local Government sphere for a qualification as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative. Preference will be given to persons with disabilities. Applicants should be between the ages of 18 and 60.
Opportunities are currently available within the following municipal areas within the Garden Route district: George x 15, Mossel Bay x 15, Knysna x 14, Ladismith x 14, Bitou x 14, Hessequa x 14 and Oudtshoorn x 14.
Applications need to have the following entry requirements:
NQF Level 3 qualification, equivalent to Grade 11
Exit Level Outcomes
Plan and prepare broad-phase learning environment and stimulating activities that meet the holistic needs of all children in centre-based or non-centre-based settings.
Facilitate and mediate all aspects of the daily programme in a centre-based or non-centre based setting.
Observe, assess and record each child’s progress according to the age and stage.
Compile a report of each child’s progress.
Maintain and promote the well-being, health, nutrition, safety and protection of children.
Please note that no stipends will be paid for this training.
THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER APPLICATIONS COMPLETED IN FULL AND IF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN UPLOADED (NB: The system only recognises PDF format documents):
A copy of a South African ID Document certified within the last six months.
A copy of your highest educational qualifications certified within the last six months.
An updated copy of your CV.
For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, Ms Dineo Ramasesane at 044 803 1447 or Mrs Nolwando Sambokwe at 044 803 1345, during office hours only. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within one month of the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.
Drivers License (Code B) 140 Training opportunities for unemployed
Another Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative!
Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons between ages of 18 to 40, male or female residing within the Garden Route district municipal area, to apply for an opportunity to be trained for a Drivers License Code B as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca initiative. Opportunities are currently available within all seven (7) municipal areas within the Garden Route District: Hessequa, Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Bitou, Oudtshoorn and Kannaland.
The total number of opportunities available for each municipal area is 20 each.
Applicants need to have Grade 11 (NQF 3) or equivalent as a minimum requirement.
Persons must be between ages of 18 to 40.
Men and women are invited, but they must reside within the boundaries of the Garden Route district.
Scope of Qualification
A qualified learner will be able to:
Demonstrate attitudes related to drivers to reduce driving risks and maintain safety on the roads.
Demonstrate techniques to improve driving skills and apply the system of vehicle control.
Drive a motor vehicle in accordance with the system of vehicle control requirements with specific reference to the applicable K53 tests.
The GRDM will only consider applications completed in full and if the following documents have been uploaded on the system:
An up to date-
Certified South African ID Copy (ID Card both sides must be copied).
Certified copy of highest educational qualifications.
For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, or Sisanda Sajini at 044 803 1450 during office hours only.
Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within two months of the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.
GRDM Celebrates Home-Based Care Certificate Ceremony
20 February 2025
Today, the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM), under the umbrella of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), proudly celebrated the graduation of 72 home-based learners who have successfully completed their training program funded by the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA). The ceremony, held at the African Skills Centre in George, was attended by political leaders, municipal officials, dignitaries from the private sector, learners, and their families.
The event was directed by Reginald Salmons, GRDM Coordinator of Skills Development, and officially opened by GRDM Mayoral Committee Chairperson for Community Services, Alderlady Ndayi, who welcomed guests and set the tone for the proceedings. Part and parcel of her work is to oversee everything relating to Corporate Services, of which the GRSM forms part of.
Ald. Sumeia Ndayi, MMC of Corporate Services, proudly handing over certificates during the ceremony.
Reginald Salmons, GRDM Coordinator of Skills Development.
Ald. Sumeia Ndayi was followed by Cllr Roelfse, George Municipality’s MMC for Social Development and Sport, who delivered a message of support on behalf of George Municipality, commending the District Municipality for rolling out this remarkable programme.
Pastor Clifford Sheldon of Hope Family Church delivered an inspiring message, using the Word of God to encourage and motivate the learners as they embark on their new journey. He concluded his remarks with an appeal to the learners, saying: “Don’t stop dreaming, don’t stop learning, don’t stop training yourself, because the best is yet to come. You have stood up in a time like this because this is not just work, but a calling you are entering.”
Clifford Sheldon, former GRDM employee, delivering an inspiring message during the ceremony.
Dr. Florus Prinsloo, former Project Coordinator of the GRSM and custodian of the programme, sharing valuable insights during the ceremony.
In 2023, GRDM received a R5.2 million investment to train unemployed individuals as Home-Based Care Personal Assistants across all seven local municipalities in the Garden Route. Throughout the programme, learners gained both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience at various training venues. They also received a monthly stipend, and late last year, they wrote their final IESA Exams, which served as their final assessment. Today, their hard work and dedication were rewarded as they received their certificates of completion, marking a significant milestone in their journey.
A very proud Dr. Florus Prinsloo, former Project Coordinator of the GRSM and custodian of the programme, provided a brief background and overview of the Skills Mecca Home-Based PA Project. He began his presentation with a powerful quote from Albert Einstein: “Once you stop learning, you start dying.” His reflections highlighted the importance of investing in skills development to empower communities and address unemployment.
Elsie Harmse, CEO of UXI/Africa Skills Village in George, shared insights into the students’ training experience, providing a glimpse into their journey toward successfully completing the programme. She encouraged the learners to make a difference wherever they go, emphasizing that this has always been the core objective of the African Skills Centre—to positively impact people’s lives.
The keynote address was delivered by Zubeyda January, Provincial Manager of HWSETA, who emphasized the importance of building partnerships to enhance skills development and create sustainable employment opportunities.
January expressed gratitude for the hard work and dedication that contributed to the project’s success. She stated: “It takes people with empathy, compassion, patience, and responsibility to choose a career in home-based care. At HWSETA, we have witnessed firsthand the rare characteristics you demonstrated during our visits to the different care centres, where learners practiced their skills under the supervision of their assigned mentors.”
In conclusion, January thanked all partners, including GRDM, African Skills Village, and officials from her department, and most importantly, the learners for their hard work and perseverance in making the project a success.
Zodwa Nqcwangu and Thobeka Jali, two beneficiaries of the programme, expressed their heartfelt gratitude on behalf of their fellow learners. They thanked GRDM and all partners present for the opportunity to be part of the programme and for the unwavering support provided throughout their training.
Many of the graduates have already secured employment opportunities, with some being offered positions at the host employers where they completed their practical training. This serves as clear evidence that investing in people is investing in the future.
Michelle Smit, Acting Executive Manager of Corporate Services, thanked all role-players for their invaluable contributions in making the project a tremendous success.
The Home-Based PA Project is an initiative rolled out by the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM). The project was coordinated by Dineo Ramasesane, one of twelve (12) Garden Route Skills Mecca Technicians, based at GRDM’s Economic Development Unit. She provided project management assistance, facilitated the programme’s monthly meetings, and ensured continuous feedback and updates to GRDM.
Featured Image Caption: A group picture of all the learners and stakeholders who attended the graduation ceremony, celebrating the success of the Home-Based Care Training Programme.
Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca National Skills Fund Launch – a focus on Hospitality and Tourism
18 September 2024
Today, 18 September 2024, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) witnessed a historic moment with the official launch of the National Skills Fund Hospitality and Tourism Project for the Garden Route. This training project is coordinated by the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) – the first and only Skills Mecca at a municipality in South Africa.
The primary goal of the Skills Mecca is to create jobs and improve livelihoods across the district by offering work-based learning opportunities for unemployed individuals, helping them develop the skills needed to secure meaningful employment. In doing so, the programme also strengthens the local economy.
Attendees at the launch event included the Principal, her team and learners from Carpe Diem school, representatives from the National Skills Fund, CEOs of Sector Education and Training Authority and members of the business and tourism community, learners, councillors, officials, and other key stakeholders involved in the district’s skills development efforts.
Elzeth Grobler, Principal of Carpe Diem School.
GRDM Speaker, Ald. Georlene Wolmarans, facilitated the program during the launch.
Elzeth Grobler, Principal of Carpe Diem School, welcomed the guest to ‘the best special needs school in the district’. She provided a brief overview of the school and said: “We are a unique school with all disabilities except blind students. We do not just educate, but we strive to prepare each learner to reach their full potential”.
During his speech, GRDM Executive Mayor, Cllr Andrew Stroebel, highlighted the significance of the three Skills Summits previously held by the GRDM. At these summits, stakeholders unanimously supported the initiatives of the GRSM, leading to the development and endorsement of ten strategic resolutions that now guide the Skills Mecca’s objectives.
Cllr Stroebel emphasised that the National Skills Fund Tourism and Hospitality Project directly aligns with one of these key resolutions, which focuses on linking skills development to investment and economic development opportunities. This connection, he noted, is vital for advancing the well-being and prosperity of all communities within the Garden Route District.
Mayor Stroebel further highlighted the broader success of the GRSM beyond the current project. He mentioned other successful initiatives, such as the Home-Based Care Personal Assistants programme, Patrol Officers training, and Renewable Energy Workshop Assistants. “Collectively, these projects have created over 54 jobs and directed R8 million into local communities and households, showcasing the tangible impact of skills development in our region,” he stated.
Stroebel also shared an interesting fact from the impact analysis: “For every learner on a Skills Mecca programme, which includes a stipend, there is a benefit for 3.56 persons in that learner’s household. So, every Rand spent has a significant ripple effect on our community.”
GRDM Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel delivering the keynote address.
Athenkosi Tshayingwe from the Department of Higher Education and Training, delivering a word of support.
Athenkosi Tshayingwe from the Department of Higher Education and Training expressed gratitude for being part of the impactful project. He highlighted that the initiative aims to train, mentor, and develop 400 unemployed residents of the Garden Route District, focusing on youth aged 18 to 35, to enhance their employability in the Tourism and Hospitality sector, with 200 specifically trained as cooks.
Tshayingwe also emphasised his department’s commitment to skills development, noting that the National Skills Fund (NSF) has invested over R5 billion in the Western Cape, benefitting more than 40,000 learners. The NSF has allocated R36.3 million to the GRDM project to equip young people with skills needed by the local industry and address unemployment.
Several beneficiaries of the GRSM program, rolled out in previous financial years, shared heartfelt testimonies during the event. These individuals, who are still gaining valuable practical experience, expressed their gratitude to the GRDM Skills Mecca for the opportunities provided. Their success stories underscore the program’s significant role in empowering communities and opening doors for personal and professional growth.
Ald Stephen de Vries during his address at the launch today.
Ald. Nompumelelo Nday, Portfolio Chairperson of GRDM Corporate Services.i
Alderman Stephen de Vries, who has a history of serving as the Chairperson of the Training and Development Committee at GRDM, shared his reflections during the event. He expressed pride in the program, stating, “The Skills Mecca is truly fulfilling the vision it set out to achieve.” Highlighting the initiative’s unique origins, he added, “To my knowledge, it is the only program of its kind in the country, born from the aftermath of a fire disaster.”
He concluded his speech by thanking all stakeholders for playing a role in this remarkable initiative. De Vries left the beneficiaries and learners with a powerful message, encouraging them not only to focus on becoming employable, but also to become entrepreneurs.
Ald. Nompumelelo Ndayi, Portfolio Chairperson of GRDM Corporate Services, delivered the vote of thanks at the event, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Carpe Diem team and learners for their excellent performance and for hosting the event at their facility. She also extended her appreciation to the beneficiaries of the Skills Mecca initiative, who shared their personal learning experiences, inspiring all stakeholders present.
Caption for Featured Image: FLTR: Ald Stephen de Vries (GRDM), Themba Ndhlovu (CATHSSETA), Cllr Andrew Stroebel (GRDM), and Chris Mudau (SASSETA), united at the event, collaborating to foster skills development and community upliftment.
Did you know?
The Skills Mecca has promoted collaboration, cooperation, and integration among all skills development stakeholders within the district, and today’s launch of the National Skills Fund Tourism and Hospitality Project reflects the ongoing commitment to this mission. Learn more about the Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative here: skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za
Media Release: Occupational Firefighter Course intake done and dusted with programme – GRDM the first of 44 Districts to offer it!
30 August 2024
On Tuesday, 27 August 2024, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Fire & Rescue Services, in collaboration with the GRDM Skills Mecca programme, marked a historic milestone with the Occupational Firefighter Graduation Ceremony. This event was a significant achievement as GRDM became the first district municipality in South Africa to offer and complete this type of qualification.
The prestigious event was attended by Chief Fire Officers from local municipalities within the district, Councillors, the GRDM Municipal Manager, Skills Mecca team, firefighters, officials, graduates, and their families and training stakeholders.
GRDM Ald. Nompumelelo Ndayi, Portfolio Chairperson of Corporate Services, delivered the official opening at the Graduation Ceremony.
GRDM Municipal Manager, Monde Stratu, delivered a word of support on behalf of the Garden Route District Municipality during the Graduation Ceremony.
In his address as the administrative head of GRDM, Municipal Manager Monde Stratu, delivered a message of support, stating, “It is indeed a wonderful day when we celebrate people who made the decision to do something with their lives, follow through with it, and see it to the end.” Stratu emphasised the importance of education, adding: “At our institution, we take education very seriously and believe that education, in any form or shape, contributes to the development of both the individual and the country. There is a concept known as human development, and countries around the world are measured in terms of human development. One of the key measurements used is education, is quality – how many people have access to it, and how long they stay in the education system.”
Stratu further highlighted the broader impact of education, remarking: “Sometimes it appears that people do not understand the value of education beyond individual benefit. When the country invests in you, you benefit individually, but the best return on that investment is societal development. Are the people we are training giving back to society and their communities, so that the communities they live in grow? That is why, in my opinion, occasions of this nature are important to underline the importance of education.”
GRDM’s Executive Manager of Corporate Services, Trix Holtzhauzen, offered words of encouragement.
Deon Stoffels, GRDM Fire Chief, sharing insights from the municipality’s journey leading up to the day’s event during the Occupational Firefighter Graduation Ceremony.
Trix Holtzhausen, GRDM Executive Manager of Corporate Services, under which the Training and Development Section of GRDM falls, encouraged and congratulated the graduates with the following words: “You have taken on one of the most challenging and noble professions. One that demands bravery, selflessness, and an unyielding commitment to protecting others. Your journey through this rigorous program has prepared you not just to respond to fires, but to lead with integrity, compassion, and strength.”
GRDM Fire Chief, Deon Stoffels, provided a brief overview of the journey leading up to the day’s proceedings, highlighting both the challenges and successes experienced throughout the process. He took the opportunity to acknowledge and thank all the stakeholders and officials involved for their contributions and support in making the event possible.
Cllr Hoogbaard delivering a heartfelt message of encouragement to the newly graduated firefighters.
Aneeka Jacobs, representing the Western Cape LGSETA Skills Development, shares an inspiring message at the Occupational Firefighter Graduation Ceremony.
During the keynote address, Councillor Jobieth Hoogbaard, Portfolio Chairperson for Community Services, congratulated the graduates and emphasised that the training program was more than just another initiative. “It represents the various municipalities’ investments in the well-being and security of our citizens. You are now part of an elite group of professionals who put their lives on the line every day to protect others,” he stated. Hoogbaard concluded his speech by reminding the firefighters that they will face challenges that would test their physical and mental limits, but he expressed his confidence in their readiness: “I have every confidence that you are ready for it, as you have been equipped over the past months with the latest techniques, technologies, and best practices to respond to emergencies and save lives.”
Both Ms. Aneeka Jacobs, Provincial Manager of Western Cape LGSETA Skills Development, and Dr Florus Prinsloo, GRDM Skills Mecca Programme Coordinator, addressed the graduates on behalf of their respective institutions. They commended the group for their perseverance and determination, which ultimately led to their successful completion of the Occupational Firefighting NQF Level 4 Programme.
Dr. Florus Prinsloo, GRDM Skills Mecca Programme Coordinator.
Reginald Salmons, GRDM Coordinator: Skills Development, plays a fundamental role in ensuring the success of Council’s training programs through his dedication and strategic planning.
The graduates impressed the guests with a captivating display of their marching skills, showcasing the discipline, precision, and teamwork they developed throughout their training. Their performance not only demonstrated their commitment to excellence but also added a sense of pride and celebration at the graduation ceremony, highlighting the hard work and dedication they put into becoming firefighters. In conclusion, certificates were handed over to the graduates, with some receiving special recognition for their outstanding performances.
Joseph Johnston, Chairperson of the Western Cape Chief Fire Officers Committee and Chief Fire Officer of the Mossel Bay Municipality, administering the Firefighter Oath.
Pictures captured during the event, highlighting memorable moments of celebration, engagement, and achievement.
