Alfred Moselakgomo

Alfred Moselakgomo

Adult basic education and training courses have opened doors to a better future for many Mpumalanga graduates.

"I am on the doorstep of new vistas with endless possibilities for knowledge acquisition that will empower me to live a better life and contribute to the development of my children," Christine Mdluli, 58, told Sowetan. I can now read and write," she said.

In 2002 the Mpumalanga provincial government embarked on a number of skills development initiatives, including Adult basic education and training (Abet) and learnership programmes, which seek to promote functional literacy in the workplace and create upward career paths through learnerships.

Officials said the idea was to radically change workplace learning and promote economic growth and increase employment and social development.

"The skills that you now possess form part of the arsenal to tackle challenges and expand knowledge horisons," Mpumalanga Premier Thabang Makwetla said.

"The sky is the limit but you need commitment, tenacity and discipline to realise the goals of improving your quality of life."

He advised graduates to take pride in what they had achieved. He said the milestone was the basis for future personal enrichment and growth, dignity and a sense of self-worth.

Every year about 2000 general workers take part in the Abet programme and this year 1950 adults successfully completed the programme.

Mpumalanga spokesman Ntime Skosana said some of the graduates had already been promoted at work.