Remote learning connects and empowers

Naidu Consulting rose to the challenge of the remote working environment induced by Covid-19, training more than 700 delegates on its Labour Intensive Construction (LIC) courses during 2021. IMIESA speaks to Devan Govender, Technical Executive: Economic Development, about what virtual training means in practice.

As an LIC champion in South Africa, Naidu Consulting has led the way with the design and supervision of numerous projects incorporating LIC techniques. These are purpose-fit solutions in support of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.

In terms of the legislation, contractors and consultants who undertake EPWP projects must deploy staff who have successfully completed an approved and recognised LIC programme, from either a design and/or supervision perspective.

“However, we soon identified that a high percentage of the construction sector, as well as those within the municipal engineering and management space, had a limited appreciation of LIC, which had an impact on the potential for job creation through EPWP and allied project roll-outs,” Govender explains.

In response, Naidu Consulting decided to develop a series of LIC-specific training courses aimed at nurturing proficient LIC NQF 5 and 7 practitioners. These are accredited by the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA).

In a further development, Naidu Consulting has also been accredited by CETA to conduct NQF 2, 3 and 4 Construction Road Worker training. Over the longer term, soft skills will also be added, like Negotiation Skills, Project Management Skills and General Contractor Mentorship.

Shifting to e-learning

“Historically, our physical, in-person sessions have been a great success. However, we identified a need well before the Covid-19 pandemic to upscale our training through allied virtual platforms. Covid-19 accelerated those plans, and we quickly responded,” Govender explains.

In-person courses have been specially readapted for e-learning. This ensures that the interactive component is retained in terms of group and individual assignments, as well as overall class engagement.

“Going the virtual route has revolutionised the training experience because we can now reach anyone, anywhere, at a reduced cost, while providing greater convenience for delegates,” he continues.

Theory and practice

The training effectively combines theory and practice to provide a holistic implementation model, based on integrated problemsolving tools applied through LIC design, specification and construction management. Classic examples include the construction of concrete block paved roads, reinforced soil applications, gabion retaining walls, and stormwater systems.

The express purpose of the training is to prepare delegates for the real-world environment. This includes running simulation scenarios. A prime example is the ability to manage and mitigate so-called ‘construction mafia’ type risks. Course modules that cater for non-technical decision-makers include labour law and LIC remuneration, drawing up LIC pro forma tender documents, and effectively managing EPWP reporting requirements.

“Because we’re involved in EPWP projects on an ongoing basis, we’re well positioned to provide the most relevant and aligned training content,” Govender explains. “For this reason, we’ve now created an LIC Update short course for engineers and non-technical individuals who have completed the LIC NQF 7 programme in the past, so they remain current.”

Municipal LIC training

In recognition of its innovative understanding of LIC, Naidu Consulting was awarded several contracts to capacitate municipal stakeholders as part of a Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) pilot project. The latter responds to the priorities of the Presidential Employment Stimulus initiative.

Essentially, the purpose of the MISA pilot is to reinforce the need for municipalities to incorporate LIC in their infrastructure tender documents and projects.

“As we went through the process, we found that municipalities, in most instances, didn’t have a full appreciation of LIC or had negative preconceptions. Some held the view, for example, that LIC was too impractical, slow and expensive, and resulted in poor quality,” Govender explains.

However, the feedback from delegates at the end of each course painted a difference picture. “They now understand why LIC is so effective in helping to create jobs and sustain communities,” Govender continues. “The next step is the practical application of the process.”

He concludes, “Once you understand that LIC is a pre-planned, pre-designed and integrated construction technique, it all starts to fall into place.”