Over the past two years, UD Trucks Southern Africa has invested more than R4.8million in training both staff and members of the community in various programmes. Simon Foulds finds out more about the company’s training initiatives.

Jacques Carelse, managing director of UD Trucks Southern Africa says, “We passionately believe in the vital importance of training and investing in the future of our employees and surrounding community. Our objective is to provide on-going developmental opportunities that not only allow us as a company to achieve our business objectives, but also to empower and contribute to the overall development of the participating learners.”

Through the company’s MERSETA-accredited programmes, UD Trucks continuously aims to address the skills shortage in the transport industry, the surrounding communities and the country as a whole.

The company also presents various learnership programmes every year, which provides tertiary students with the opportunity to intern in a variety of departments, including marketing, HR, finance and engineering.

UD Trucks recently held a graduation ceremony at its assembly facilities in Rosslyn, Pretoria, for the students who have successfully completed their studies.These included 13 students who gained a National Certificate in Automotive Sale and Support Service, an 18-month course which also saw many existing UD Trucks staff members enhance their skills portfolio.

14 students also completed a year-long qualification in Wholesale and Distribution, which provided vital developmental opportunities for some of the company’s existing warehouse employees, as well as unemployed learners from the community who could potentially fill a vacancy at the company if the business need arises.

Telishia Middleton, training manager at the company, adds:“One of the most vital skills at UD Trucks’ region-wide dealer network is that of diesel technician. Ten students successfully completed their diesel technician trade with the assistance of the company and its dealers, and are now able to assist UD Trucks customers in a knowledgeable and efficient manner.”

The company also trained 33 unemployed learners from the community in Automotive Component and Manufacturing, who could also potentially be employed at its assembly plant should production increase.

Then, 13 disabled learners were given the opportunity to gain qualifications that addressthe specific needs and requirements of the manufacturing industry, as well as the Government’s initiatives in this regard.

Middleton says: “The unemployed disabled learners completed twelve months of training which included modules ranging from numeracy and literacy to production concepts, employer/ employee relationships, as well as hand and measuring tools.”

“Trucking forms such an integral part of the South African economy and it is of great importance to ensure that the wheels of industry continue to turn effectively and productively.One of the sure ways to ensure the vitality of the industry is to empower people through learning and skills training opportunities.As a company, it is a privilege to be able to provide these opportunities to our staff and our community,” Concludes Carelse.