Driver training scheme addresses skills shortage

THE ROAD Freight Association has moved into action to address the country’s dwindling pool of qualified professional drivers. Suitable training providers have been invited to participate in a driver training programme to be funded by the Social Development Funding Window of the National Skills Fund. Professional drivers were singled out as one of the economic sectors entitled to benefit from the fund and the RFA will apply for a R25 000 per learner. “The aim of the programme is to upskill unemployed learners,” says RFA CEO Sharmini Naidoo. “Part of the requirements of the NSF is that employers need to guarantee learners at least 12 months employment following the completion of the programme,” she said. The course will run for 58 days and is open to learners aged 18-35 with Grade 10 qualification and preferably a code C (10) licence.