By Guy Rogers Environment & Tourism Editor
EASTERN Cape Premier Nosimo Balindlela has allocated a R1,5-million grant to bolster the work of Umzi Wethu, a training and job placement academy for youths from households hit by HIV/Aids, established by the Wilderness Foundation.
The grant was announced yesterday by Agriculture and Land Affairs MEC Gugile Nkwinti, who was speaking at the first graduation of the academy, a high-spirited occasion at the academy‘s headquarters in Glendinningvale in Port Elizabeth.
Speaking on behalf of the Premier, Nkwinti said the academy was playing a vital role.
“I challenge you to increase the numbers enrolled in this programme. By doing so, you will be helping us to increase eco-tourism, and thereby helping us to end poverty.”
Accompanied by cheers and clapping from the audience, the MEC handed over certificates to each of the 13 students, who graduated either as “junior chefs” or “food and beverage services‘ specialists”.
In the culminating moment of the ceremony, they were joined at the podium by representatives from Kariega and Shamwari game reserves, the Legacy Hotel Group and the foundation, where they already have guaranteed jobs.
Andrew Muir, CEO of the Wilderness Foundation, said there were 1,2-million youngsters in South Africa who have either been orphaned or forced into vulnerable circumstances by the impact of HIV/ Aids and poverty on their homes.
Africa Global Skills Academy CEO Ornica Mukhavhuli said there was an urgent need for more programmes like Umzi Wethu.
“There is a brain drain in the Eastern Cape and 2010 is putting serious pressure on the need for skills. These certificates have unlocked the future for you,” she told the graduates.
The main sponsorship comes from overseas donors.
A second intake of students, who are being trained as game guards and guides, has already been enrolled in the academy.