The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) believes the success of its Workplace Challenge Programme (WPC) initiative will be measured by South African companies competing globally and increasing efficiency in production processes.
DTI Deputy DG of Special Economic Zones and Economic Transformation Sipho Zikode this week undertook site visits to the Gauteng-based beneficiaries of the programme, Kgabo Cars and Training Centre, Legaci Laundry and Dry Cleaners and All Cash Technologies.
The WPC, which was aimed at small, medium-sized and microenterprises in the manufacturing sector, had assisted and supported over 1 140 companies since 2003.
“We need companies that will not only employ, but train the youth to employ themselves and contribute to growing the economy. They also ensure that the development of capacity, productivity and competitiveness in the manufacturing sector is enhanced,” said Zikode.
He highlighted that the National Treasury alone was not going to be able to address the country’s economic challenges; however, partnerships between all government departments and businesses would contribute to addressing the economic challenges.