JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – As part of government’s Expanded Public Works Programme to create job opportunities and alleviate poverty, about 50 emerging construction contractor-owners from across the Western Cape are currently receiving training by the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works on how to run their businesses more effectively.

Taking place in Cape Town between September 8 and 12, the course forms part of the foundation phase of the department’s Siyenyuka Contractor Development Programme and comprises six modules split into a series of five-day workshops, totalling 30 days and spread over six months.

These shorter interventions were necessary so that participants did not spend too many successive days away from their business.

Accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority and the Construction Education and Training Authority (Ceta), training would focus on developing a successful construction business, as well as building and managing a construction site.

The course would also equip participants with skills they could apply daily in their businesses, such as teaching them how to calculate the daily quantities required on a building site and how to cost a project properly.

To receive a Ceta certificate of competence, participants would be required to meet class attendance and participation requirements, pass certain tests, submit a portfolio of evidence and meet relevant portfolio assessment criteria.

Siyenyuka Construction Development Programme representative Keith Rass said the department wanted the emerging contractors to transition from being “bakkie contractors” to becoming viable business entities.

“We assist participants to meet all the requirements to compete for tenders and submit building quotes. We give them the knowledge and skills to develop and grow their businesses so that they can generate an income for themselves and potentially create job opportunities for others,” he outlined.

The training also formed a key component of the National Emerging Contractor Development Programme.