The Raubex Academy was opened on Thursday (22/10). Its initial focus will include civil construction skills, artisan development, operator training, safety, and supervisory and management development, said group talent manager John Ilott.

“The academy’s training priorities are based on Raubex’s operational needs, workforce planning, and succession planning. The skills development programmes will focus on sectors such as construction, infrastructure, roads, and mining.”

The academy is excited about creating strong pathways for young people who might struggle to access training and work. “We aim to work with education partners, municipalities, Raubex businesses and other stakeholders to create funded training, apprenticeship and development opportunities, particularly for young people who may struggle to access these programmes.”

“Community access is very much part of the direction in which we would like the academy to develop,” said Ilott.

The academy’s impact will extend beyond its own training programmes, with the facility potentially providing opportunities for people in the local community. While much of Raubex’s in-house training will take place at its operational sites, the Bloemfontein facility could also support local skills development.

Building relationships with local schools, particularly those introducing technical subjects, is important. These programmes could help create a pipeline of technically skilled young people who may pursue careers in the construction industry, said Ilott.

“South Africa needs more people with technical skills, highlighting a shortage that extends beyond engineers and other highly qualified professionals.”

The academy aims to encourage young people to take pride in pursuing technical careers, which are essential to supporting businesses and industries. South Africa’s infrastructure challenges also require a skilled workforce capable of delivering on the country’s development commitments.

Skills development should not be limited to infrastructure and operating machinery. The academy also aims to offer broader training opportunities, including leadership development, management courses, and information technology (IT), said business development manager Karen Booysen.

Technical training is more diverse and sophisticated than many people realise. “We hope this broader range of skills will be reflected in how the academy’s work is presented to the public,” she added.

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa cvs

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