PPC: Bridging the skills gap, one brick at a time

Bricks and cement are basic requirements for any building project. They are also the unsung products that have opened opportunities for thousands of people, created employment, enabled entrepreneurs to create small businesses, earn a living and employ and upskill other people.

The fact is that bricklayers are always in demand,” says Njombo Lekula, Managing Director of PPC. “Whether the call is for someone to build a garden wall, braai area, do repairs or tackle a larger project, anyone who has skills, transport, some tools and a dash of determination can earn a living.

Making a difference

The result of PPC’s determination to make a difference is a two-week course in bricklaying, which PPC has launched that has the potential to change futures and provide a launching pad into the world of construction.

The course has attracted individuals trying to break the poverty cycle, as well as unemployed young engineering and construction graduates looking for some practical experience to help kick-start their careers. More than 50 students from Gauteng have already attended a course at the PPC Cement factory in Pretoria West. Within eight months, it is intended that more than 200 bakkie builders will be given a chance to improve their abilities.

“PPC understands that many attending the course will not have the funds to buy the tools necessary for bricklaying services after the course. In addition to the course, we are, therefore, assisting participants to buy the basic tools they require to start a bricklaying business,” says Lekula.

To ensure that access to the course is as easy as possible, PPC has partnered with private FET college Motheo Academy, an active participant in the built environment, to provide the training.

People wishing to enroll in a course, which is offered free of charge, can either apply to join a course, or be nominated by a retailer.

Various programmes

Other courses that cover the theory and practice of bricklaying, plastering and construction management are also available across the country as PPC expands its efforts to promote skills development in the construction industry. Programmes include a 10-day plastering course covering wall plastering and the screeding of floors. A fiveday management programme includes construction team management, health and safety, and the use and storage of construction materials.

All attendees completing the NQF level 3 (bricklaying and plastering) and NQF level 4 (construction management) programme will receive South African Qualifications Authority certificates.

PPC

T Toll Free +27 (0)800 236 368 E contactus@ppc.co.za W www.ppc.africa