Leading manufacturer and supplier FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA is not only committed to local innovation, but also has extensive training initiatives in place to foster youth development. By aligning closely with industry trends and technological advancements, the FUCHS training programmes enhance overall employability and add to the industry’s skills base, comments HR Executive Annelia Tshabalala.

FUCHS contributes to youth development through internships and learnerships, bursaries, and vacation employment, among others. Its internship programme enhances theoretical skills obtained from higher education by means of practical work exposure in chosen fields, with guidance from mentors and managers. “Most interns who have completed the programmes successfully have obtained permanent employment either at FUCHS or other companies,” reveals Tshabalala.

Youth who have completed Grade 12 and progressed to an institution of higher learning are also eligible for bursary sponsorship. Such students are afforded the opportunity for vacation employment at the FUCHS Isando head office during the June and December school holidays.

While the criteria for the various initiatives include youth from diverse backgrounds, preference is given to economically disadvantaged high school learners. Maths4All and MATHAMIND advance mathematics skills so as to increase the overall pass rate and encourage learners to opt for the maths and science stream to be able to venture into various STEM careers.

Looking ahead, Tshabalala says FUCHS has plans to participate in various career exhibitions at different institutions of higher learning to raise awareness about the diverse career opportunities in the lubricants industry. “The practical use of technology in our training programmes not only enhances learning effectiveness and efficiency, but it also ensures learners are equipped with the skills and knowledge demanded in today’s ever-evolving industry,” highlights Tshabalala.

Online platforms deliver content efficiently through online modules that include quizzes based on the content, affording learners added flexibility. In addition, participants are trained using modern machinery equipment and software relevant to their respective fields. “This on-hands experience with advanced equipment and software thus prepares them to meet industry standards and operate efficiently in a real-world setting,” concludes Tshabalala.