Free State, Bloemfontein: A total of 41 out of 54 departmentally trained artisans were placed in Bloemfontein yesterday, Tuesday, 06th February 2024.
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure’s regional office was the venue, and MEC Dibolelo Mance was the host. The department was inducting artisans for the Welisizwe Bridge Programme, which will see engineers from the South African National Defence Force collaborate with artisans to construct bridges across the province.
Addressing the artisans, the MEC said the department’s main reason for embarking on such a project was the loss of lives, particularly of children who are often swept away by raging rivers.
“We have often heard about children being swept away by rivers on their way to school. The President, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, launched this project to prevent the unnecessary loss of the lives of our children. You will be working with engineers from the South African National Defence Force, and we hope you will make us proud,” said MEC Mance.
The MEC further appealed to the artisans to keep the property, particularly the government’s, in good condition.
“This group gathered here must ensure that dilapidated buildings are refurbished and brought back to life. Maintenance is key; therefore, we are relying on you to keep our property in good condition,” she said.
In closing, MEC Mance encouraged the artisans to establish joint projects and not be overly reliant on the government.
“You must think beyond being government officials and organise and coordinate yourselves and establish businesses. I would love to see you as a successful businessperson in the future,” said MEC Mance.
A total of 11 bridges in the Free State have been approved for construction, and four of them are currently under construction.
This government is working very hard to deliver services to its citizens. Furthermore, this is the most institution that is currently giving training opportunities to young graduates and preparing them for employment opportunities within the state.