This is a ‘first’ for the CfE, who is thrilled to be able to provide the students with tuition in its ‘New Venture Programme’, but now is now tasked with matching the students to companies for work experience.

“We are excited about this project and look forward to forging relationships with as many companies as possible to assist with the internships,” says Chimene Chetty, Director of the CfE. “Training and developing young people in entrepreneurial skills is half the battle – the other half is affording them the opportunity to get work experience, which is so important for future careers and employability.”

Talking on SAfm radio, Chimene appealed to companies to “step up” and open their doors for these young matriculants, all of whom are unemployed.

“We are appealing to registered companies to help us place these people so they can learn basic workplace skills. This project is about helping young people understand the workplace from an entrepreneurial orientation, and to do that we need companies to assist with placements. What they get out of it is affordable skills, and a chance to do their civic duty in addressing economic growth and unemployment.”

The 250 youngsters will embark on the learnership programme on 1 May, 2017 for twelve months. They will receive a stipend from the CfE for the duration of the programme.

For more information, please contact Tebatso.masete@wits.ac.za or 011-717-3251.