First Cohort Of Unemployed NEMISA Graduates At CUT

First Cohort Of Unemployed NEMISA Graduates At CUT. The Central University of Technology (CUT), in collaboration with the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA), the Provincial Government, Vaal University of Technology (VUT), and Human Capital Learning Solutions (HCLS), celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of NEMISA graduates. The ceremony, held at the Bloemfontein Campus on 11 October 2023, marked the successful completion of the digital skills training program for 27 unemployed youth in the Free State.

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Graduation Ceremony Highlights

The training program, which began in June, aimed to equip participants with digital literacy, entrepreneurship skills, and practical training in cell phone repair. During the ceremony, the graduates received tablets, cell phone repair tool kits, and business registration as part of the program’s support for their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Distinguished Guests

The event was attended by notable figures, including Mr. Philemon Mapulane (Deputy Minister DCDT), Mr. Thabo Meeko (MEC DESTEA), Prof. Alfred Ngowi (DVC: Research Innovation and Engagement), Mr. Trevor Rammitlwa (CEO: NEMISA), and Ms. Antoinette Lombard (VUT CoLab Director).

Commitment to Empowerment

Prof. Ngowi emphasized CUT’s commitment to supporting NEMISA’s mandate of improving the quality of life for youth and women. He pledged continued infrastructure and human capital support for NEMISA’s initiatives.

Empowering Youth for Entrepreneurship

Mr. Rammitlwa expressed excitement about empowering youth with skills that transition them from unemployment to entrepreneurship. He encouraged the graduates to conquer their fears, remain competitive, and explore new technologies in the evolving digital landscape.

Future Opportunities

MEC Meeko highlighted the importance of digital skills in economic growth and job creation. He encouraged graduates to explore other NEMISA programs and emphasized the role of state procurement in supporting SMMEs.

Expanding Opportunities

The graduates were advised to explore other NEMISA programs on the website, including digital creative media, content production, graphic designing, and radio production. The program aims to expand to TVET colleges and Community Education and Training Colleges.

CoLab Initiatives

NEMISA programs are currently run at CoLabs situated at CUT, VUT, and Botshabelo Innovation Hub. These CoLabs play a critical role in upskilling citizens in digital skills, particularly unemployed youth and women, with thousands already trained in the Free State.

Conclusion

The graduation ceremony of the first cohort of NEMISA graduates at CUT signifies a significant step towards empowering youth and promoting entrepreneurship in the digital age. Through collaborative efforts, these initiatives aim to address unemployment and foster economic growth in South Africa.