SHUKELA TRAINING CENTRE HOLDS SUCCESSFUL CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS

Thami Mathe

On 17 October 2025 and 07 November 2025, the Shukela Training Centre (STC) held successful engagement sessions with its sugar industry and non-sugar industry customers, respectively at KwaShukela Auditorium. The purpose of the sessions was to update customers on the new Occupational Qualifications, their development and duration (informed by the official curriculum), their fee structures as well as the expected role that Mentors have to play once learners are at the workplace. In addition, the sessions included discussions on Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL), given that many companies have employees who could qualify for ARPL but do not know the entry requirements and the ARPL process.

STC Management with representatives from the sugar industry customers.

A key highlight of the sessions were the discussions around the transition from legacy trade qualifications to the new Occupational Qualifications. Many participants raised thoughtful questions about implementation and assessment processes, reflecting the shared need for clarity during this period of change. The sessions provided an ideal platform for this dialogue, ensuring that companies felt heard and supported.

Overall, the sessions were well-received and created a positive environment for knowledge sharing and collaboration. STC expressed its commitment to continuing these engagement sessions and workplace visits by training managers.  

STC Management with representatives from the non-sugar industry customers.

The sessions were led by the STC General Manager, Thami Mathe, supported by the two Engineering Training Managers, Sean Bouverie (Electrical Technical Training Manager) and Bronwyn Govender (Mechanical Technical Training Manager) and Nolwazi Madlala (Agricultural Training Manager).

Thami Mathe is General Manager at STC