The Master Builders Association of the Western Cape (MBAWC) will again be offering potential candidates in the region the chance to attain a nationally recognised qualification for free, as well as gain employment and earn while they learn.
From February 2019, for the 11th year, the organisation will be offering the opportunity to obtain a Certificate in Construction Supervision. This is open to those who have passed grade 12, with maths as a subject, as well as to those who have not achieved this academic level but who will undergo psychometric tests to prove their suitability for the course. Dubbed The Cadet Programme, the four-year course – approved by the South African Qualifications Authority – will result in a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 4 qualification (equivalent to the old construction diploma from a technikon).
Practical experience through employment
During the initial three months of their first year, students are exposed to all facets of the building industry, including carpentry, plumbing, plastering as well as health and safety. They are given practical experience through employment with MBAWC member companies for the nine months that follow.
Over the remaining three years, they undergo two months of theoretical training at a technical institution and are employed by different member companies each year. At the end of the fourth year, if they have completed all of their modules and projects, they receive their certificate and can become construction foremen or further their studies in order to progress up the career ladder. Throughout the four years, the students receive a monthly stipend.
Many benefits to enrolling
Everyone with the necessary qualifications is encouraged to enrol in the programme because the MBAWC gives you a lifetime qualification for free. You not only get free, quality education, but you get paid to go to school and learn. You are connected with relevant construction companies, advice from the organisers is always on hand.
“We have a proud tradition of producing skilled and semi-skilled people who have worked on major projects all over Southern Africa and we invite more to take part in our training to lay the foundations for their futures,” concludes MBAWC group skills facilitator Tony Keal.
