Engen has once again partnered with the Disability Economic Empowerment Trust (DEET) to launch a driver training and job readiness programme to empower 200 people with disabilities across five provinces.

This initiative promotes economic inclusion by equipping participants with essential driving skills and workplace competencies, ensuring that they are prepared to enter the job market.

Launched on 1 September 2024 in South Durban, the programme will be rolled out over the next 12 months in the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, North West, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga, with 20 beneficiaries per province receiving driver training.

The goal is to help all 200 participants secure employment opportunities, particularly in regions with limited access to work.

The job readiness programme equips participants with skills like CV writing, interview techniques, digital literacy, and workplace etiquette, enhancing their prospects in both urban and rural markets.

The driver training initiative focuses on breaking down barriers to employment by providing participants with learners and driving licenses—critical for mobility and access to job opportunities.

Thabiso Phetuka, CEO of DEET, expressed his gratitude for Engen's sustained support: "This sponsorship reflects Engen’s belief in a more inclusive South Africa. These programmes go beyond skill acquisition—they break down economic barriers, ensuring that people with disabilities are equipped to thrive in the competitive job market."

Since 2019, Engen and DEET have collaborated on initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for persons with disabilities, focusing on equal opportunities, poverty reduction, and social inclusion. Engen’s first driver training programme for people with disabilities launched in 2021, assisting 100 individuals.

Olwethu Mdabula, Engen’s CSI Manager, highlighted the project’s long-term impact: "The skills acquired in this programme will benefit beneficiaries for life, whether they choose employment or entrepreneurship. We aim to improve living standards by addressing key barriers to participation, particularly mobility."

The programme is also aligned with South Africa’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the 2015 White Paper on Disability, reflecting Engen’s dedication to social inclusion.

"Our partnership with Engen provides real hope to people with disabilities who have struggled to access the job market due to a lack of skills or mobility," added Phetuka.

Affirming Engen’s dedication to disability inclusion, Mdabula added: "It’s not just about non-discrimination but about creating tangible opportunities that enable people with disabilities to become active members of society. This initiative reflects Engen’s commitment to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4—ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all."

Engen remains proud to champion disability inclusion as one of its key social investment focus areas, reinforcing its role in supporting inclusive development across South Africa.