Interactive Driver Education System (IDES) for High School Learners

The Interactive Driver Education System (IDES) is a driver training system with computer-based tuition towards obtaining a Learners' Licence, and a computerised driver training simulator to assist learner drivers to maneuver a vehicle before they attempt to drive the actual real vehicle.

IDES will provide the learner with all the training material to help the learner pass the learners' licence test and it will provide the skills and the confidence to drive on the road. IDES systematically teaches the learner from basic road signs to how to handle a vehicle in wet weather or in an emergency situation.

The IDES project is targetted at high school learners to obtain drivers' licences as part of Life Orientation skills in line with the current school curriculum in South Africa. The intervention is funded through sponsorships and grants since most learners in township school are unable to afford the training. Companies are invited to make Corporate Social Investment (CSI) or Socio-Economic Development (SED) contributions (BEE Code 700) in support of this initiative.

The aim is to establish Community e-Centres in the townships where high school learners can access the system as well as workshops on Personal Development Planning (PDP), Study Readiness and Career Guidance. Other services such as Basic Computer Skills Training, Internet Access, Photocopy and Typing, CV development and Job Hunting/Interview Preparation will be offered to enable to e-Centre to become sustainable. Enterprise Development contributions (BEE Code 600) from companies to fund the establishment of these e-Centres are highly welcome

Any member of the community will be able to access IDES and other services offered at the e-Centre on a pre-paid or post-paid basis.

Based on the pilot process that is currectly being undertaken, we infer that this programme will add true value to both the community and the contributing entity that chooses to adopt this project.

Any interested parties can e-mail Joshua Mahlangu: josh.frisson@gmail.com or call 072 614 1986

Coordinating the MQA Artisan Learnerships

I had the privilage to be involved in the co-ordination of the Mining Qualifications Authority's Learnerships on the following trades: Millwright, Diesel Mechanics and Fitter & Turner. This learning programme was the implementation of Discretionary Grants for West End Claybrick in Zuurbekom (8 learners) and for Kilo Sand in Mnandi, Knoepieslaagte (1 learner).

I really enjoyed engaging with the community leaders and community based organizations in Bekkersdal, Westonaria, and Simunye townships to mobilise interested candidates. All candidates were very ambitious and eager to partake in this programme. The selection process was robust and it was difficult to make decisions on the suitable candidates. However, the most challenging task was the actual registration of learners with the MQA. The process involved working with all stakeholders on tight timelines. I had to liaise with the lead employers, the training provider (Ikhaya Fundisa Techniskills Academy) and the MQA through 45 Degree HR (the appointed SDF).

I must point out that I learned a lot in this programme, especially about the MQA process. It was my first time working on the MQA Learnerships. However, I have previously been involved in learnerships for the National Youth Service Programme (NYSP); The Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP); Safety and Security Sector Education & Training Authority (SASSETA) and the Transport Education & Training Authority (TETA).

The eventual selection of learners; the liaison with the training provider and the registration of learners with the MQA coupled with the MQA's requirement list has indeed complimented my experience in skills development facilitation. The disappointment by the two learners who could not make it to come sign their Learnership Programme Agreements is something that I will never forget in my career.

The most valuable lesson here is: Always follow through on all parties involved in the process and never wait until the last minute to check on any activities...

Good luck to all the learners with your future endeavours!