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EnviroServ helps Nelson Mandela Bay learners take pride in their appearance

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Eighty learners from 16 previously disadvantaged schools in Nelson Mandela Bay have received full school uniforms as part of EnviroServ Waste Management’s Alex Matikinca Dress a Learner programme.

From jerseys to shirts, trousers, socks, shoes and tracksuits, the learners, who hail from schools across Motherwell, New Brighton, Wells Estate and Veeplaas, have been fully kitted with brand-new school wear.

The learners hail from David Vuku, Dumani, Enkwenkwezini, Emafini, Eludini, Funimfundo, Amanzi, Enkululekweni, Melisizwe, Nxanelwimfundo, Vukanibantu, Ikhwezelihle and Coega primary schools, and Lonwabo Special School, Coselelani and Ncedo high schools, which are all in the vicinity of EnviroServ’s Aloes waste management facility.

For some children, it was the first time they had received an item of clothing which was brand new, said EnviroServ’s Group Public Affairs Manager, Makgabo van Niekerk.

The government has made a call to corporate South Africa to assist in initiatives which accelerate nation building and development, and EnviroServ answered the call with their annual school uniform programme which clothes needy learners at schools around their operations across the country.

“EnviroServ is privileged to yet again be able to make a difference in the lives of learners around our waste management facilities. Knowing that we will contribute to the education and well-being of 205 future leaders is something we do not take for granted,” said Van Niekerk.

A total of 205 school children from around the country received much needed school uniforms from head to toe from EnviroServ in 2024 – 80 from Gqeberha, 80 in Etwatwa event and 45 from schools in and around Phomolong.

GROW ECD Accelerator Programme For ECD Owners in Gqeberha on 8 Feb 2024

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Join Grow ECD’s renowned Accelerator Programme for Early Childhood Development centre owners. ECD Centre owners will learn how to improve the quality of education at your school, run your school like a business and turn it into one that is financially sustainable.

The course starts on 8 February, costs R600 and covers six important modules.

The venue for the course is Uviwe Child & Youth Services: 56 St Nicholas Rd, Schauderville, Gqeberha, Eastern Cape

Apply to take part in the GROW ECD Accelerator Programme on www.growecd.org.za or email info@growecd.org.za.

Previous Accelerator programme attendee. TCB

 

Previous Accelerator programme attendee. TCB

 

Previous Accelerator programme attendee. TCB

Video: GROW ECD Accelerator Programme For ECD Owners in Gqeberha on 8 Feb 2024:

CLICK HERE to submit your NMB Business News..

More Info on GROW ECD Accelerator Programme For ECD Owners in Gqeberha on 8 Feb 2024 here: GROW ECD
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Address: 56 St Nicholas Rd, Schauderville,, Gqeberha
Author: Inky Dresner from GROW ECD.
Images: For high res version/s of Three image/s please contact GROW ECD.

11 Years as South Africa’s Top Selling Cab-Over-Chassis brand

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ISUZU Trucks proudly celebrates its remarkable 11-year reign as the number one brand in South Africa’s cab-over-chassis’ medium and heavy commercial vehicle (MCV and HCV) segments. Despite market challenges, ISUZU Trucks continues to dominate, reinforcing its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

Medium commercial vehicle segment: In 2023, ISUZU Trucks maintained a significant presence in the Medium Commercial Vehicle (MCV) segment. The sales results showcase the brand’s resilience and market leadership:

  • Total volume for 2023: 1,632 units, reflecting a 5.1% decline from 2022’s 1,720 units.
  • Market share for 2023: 30.8%, indicating a 1.4% decrease from 2022’s 32.2%.
  • Consistent leadership: ISUZU Trucks secured the top volume-selling cab-over-chassis (excluding van and bus) position for all 12 months, with March standing out as the best sales month, achieving a remarkable 198 units.

Heavy commercial vehicle segment: ISUZU Trucks’ performance in the Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) segment highlights its adaptability and strength in a dynamic market:

  • Total volume for 2023: 1,160 units, compared to 2022’s 1,223 units.
  • Market share for 2023: 21.2%, reflecting a notable 0.7% increase from 2022’s 20.5%.
  • Despite a decrease in volume within the segment, ISUZU Trucks has successfully increased its overall market share.

Achieving top spot: ISUZU Trucks proudly claims the title of the #1 top-selling cab-over-chassis brand in both the MCV and HCV segments in South Africa. The success is further exemplified by the NPR 400 and FTR 850 models, which stood out as the top volume-selling model derivatives, showcasing the brand’s ability to meet diverse market demands.

“We are immensely proud of this achievement and grateful for the support of our valued customers, dealerships, and partners who have played a crucial role in our continued success”, said Craig Uren, Senior Vice President Revenue Generations (SACU) at ISUZU Motors South Africa. He furthermore expressed gratitude for the continued support of customers, dealerships, and partners, stating, “These results reinforce our dedication to providing high-quality, innovative solutions. ISUZU Trucks remains committed to setting industry standards and driving the future of commercial transportation.”

As ISUZU Trucks embarks on another year, the brand is poised to build on its legacy of excellence, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions.

Chamber appoints new Property Task team Lead

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The Nelson Mandela Bay Chambers Property Task Team has been given a boost with the appointment of Tracey Mouton as its new Lead.

Currently serving as the Managing Director at Goldberg and de Villiers Inc. a prominent legal firm in Nelson Mandela Bay, Mouton takes over the reins from Liezel Greyvenstein, who played a pivotal role in establishing the Task Team.

Mouton’s primary responsibility in her new role is to drive the strategic objectives of the Task Team. This includes identifying and resolving property-related obstacles to expedite investment in Nelson Mandela Bay. The aim is to address bureaucratic hurdles within the municipal system that have caused delays in approving various applications, hindering potential investments and slowing down economic growth and job creation.

The Chamber, through its action-oriented task team, will actively seek to eliminate these challenges and create a more business-friendly environment within the city’s industrial and commercial property portfolio. Mouton expresses her commitment to collaborating with the Task Team to strengthen and drive solutions which are most critical to improving the ease of doing business. Additionally it is envisaged that the Task Team will also take action based on inputs from the Chamber’s eight geographic clusters, which comprises of businesses in neighbouring areas working together to identify and solve enabling environment issues of common interest.

Commenting on her appointment, Mouton emphasises the importance of collaborating with the municipality to identify and address key hindrances affecting the ease of doing business in the city. She acknowledges the solid foundation laid by her predecessor and highlights the team’s mandate to work closely with the municipality and other relevant stakeholders to overcome obstacles.

“It is a privilege to be appointed to this new role as I will build on a solid foundation that my predecessor built during her tenure. My biggest priority is to ensure that I collaborate with my team members to strengthen the voice of business in order to protect current investments and help grow the economy. As such, we will continue to interact with critical role players such as the municipality for the benefit of both business and the local government,” says Mouton.

Denise van Huyssteen, the Chamber’s chief executive, expresses gratitude for Mouton’s appointment, citing her experience and leadership skills as a valuable asset. The Chamber sees Mouton’s role as significant and believes she is well-suited to mobilise businesses around areas of common interest, ensuring continuity and a stronger focus on achieving the team’s goals. “Business Volunteers like Tracey play a critical role in enabling the Chamber to undertake proactive interventions which make a difference in our local economy. Getting the Bay back on track is a collective effort which requires the support and involvement of all stakeholders from business through to civil society.”

 

Tracey Mouton
Tracey Mouton

Coega Supports Nelson Mandela Bay Sustainable and Resilient Future

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The Eastern Cape (EC) Province is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and diverse ecosystems. However, like many regions around the world, it faces the challenges of climate change and the need for sustainable development. The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is emerging as one of the key players in advancing climate resilience and green initiatives in the EC, particularly in the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) region.

In fact, speaking on the sidelines at NMB Climate-Smart Process Launch, which took place in New Brighton, Gqeberha on 24 January 2024, Mr. Sisa Xabanisa, Coega’s Environmental Manager, shared that Coega’s proactive approach towards issues of sustainability can be attributed to its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting renewable energy projects. The organisation has recognised the importance of addressing climate change and has taken significant strides towards achieving a low- carbon economy.

One of the ways Coega is contributing to sustainability in the EC Province is through its carbon footprint analysis. By conducting an analysis of its carbon emissions and identifying areas for improvement, Coega is able to develop strategies to reduce its environmental impact. This not only demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to environmental stewardship but also serves as a model for other stakeholders in the region.

Further, Coega has been involved in renewable energy projects, which are crucial for transitioning towards a more sustainable and low-carbon economy. By investing in renewable energy, Coega is not only reducing its reliance on fossil fuels but also contributing to the development of the renewable energy sector in the region. This has significant environmental benefits while creating economic opportunities and jobs in the EC.

The inaugural NMB Climate Smart 2055 Public Process Launch, led by the Presidential Climate Commission, embodies a commitment to sustainability and is a conscientious effort to ensure a sustainable future for the NMB region. Coega’s involvement as an operator of the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and as a catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development, positions the Corporation as a key player in piloting the NMB towards inclusive and systematic climate transformation.

At the core of Coega’s Sustainability Framework is a resolute dedication to implementing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), by catalysing investments in net-zero and low carbon emissions industries. The Corporation is actively scaling up renewable energy projects and promoting energy efficiency, showcasing a proactive stance in mitigating climate-related challenges. In addition, Coega’s innovative approach addresses issues like drought through unlocking funding for water security projects, illustrating a multifaceted strategy toward climate resilience.

By aligning its sustainability efforts with the objectives of the 2015 Paris Agreement and the SDGs, particularly Goal 13: Climate Action, Coega not only demonstrates awareness of environmental challenges but a proactive approach to advancing the global agenda to address climate change. By contributing to the measurement and monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions and championing the trajectory towards net-zero emissions, Coega positions itself as a responsible player in combatting climate change.

Since 2020, Coega has embarked on a journey to conduct a carbon footprint analysis to determine the greenhouse gas emissions from its operations. The intent was to identify major sources of emissions, quantify emissions, and develop strategies. Coega is in the process of developing a fully-fledged carbon footprint monitoring system that extends beyond its business processes to encompass the activities of tenants in the Coega SEZ and the Nelson Mandela Bay Logistics Park (NMBLP). Coega’s plan to leverage and build resilience to climate and sustainability challenges involves deploying its fully-fledged carbon footprint analysis dashboard and recommendations on emissions reductions and carbon neutrality across carbon-intensive business processes.

The Corporation’s commitment to renewable energy is a testament to its position in support of the Just Energy Transition (JET) as envisaged by the South African government. The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Coega Solar Rooftop Project is an indication that Coega’s operations and developments are on par with the shift towards the green economy. Coega’s role as a driver of socioeconomic and environmental justice underscores its commitment to a green economy, showcasing a proactive stance in the transition towards a low-emissions future.

The NMB Climate Action Strategy and Climate Resilience Development Plan (CRDP) will be pivotal to shaping and solidifying the direction that Coega has taken towards the measurement and monitoring of its carbon footprint. Coega is on a positive trajectory to set objectives and targets for greenhouse gas emissions reduction, climate mitigation, and adaptation in support of sustainable development for all its operations.

In combating these challenges, Coega adopts the concept of green infrastructure – a strategic and managed network of natural spaces and open areas. This not only conserves biodiversity but also provides ecosystem values and functions. Green infrastructure, as practiced by the organisation, involves landscaping and rehabilitation, solar rooftop panels, rainwater harvesting tanks, and stormwater management within the Coega SEZ. These initiatives contribute to improving air quality, mitigating climate change impacts, reducing soil erosion, and enhancing societal wellbeing.

Looking ahead, Coega envisages a green pathway that harmonises economic growth with environmental responsibility. The Corporation’s involvement signifies a dedication to positive transformation. As the NMB navigates climate complexities, Coega emerges as a catalyst for a greener and more resilient future, ensuring that economic prosperity goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship.

Nelson Mandela Bay stakeholders commit to build a Climate Resilient City

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The signing of the ground breaking pledge for a Climate Resilient Nelson Mandela Bay today at the Mendi Arts Centre, in New Brighton, represents a significant step forward in the city’s proactive efforts to build a metro that can both withstand the impact of climate change and utilise the opportunities it presents.

The key stakeholders involved, including the MMC for Public Health, NMB Civil Society Coalition, Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, Nelson Mandela University, and the Presidential Climate Commission have demonstrated their commitment to mitigating the drivers of climate change and identifying resilience pathways that utilise the Metro’s human and natural resources.

The Climate Change Resilient Development Strategy Framework (CRDS) serves as a crucial “toolbox” to guide local stakeholders and development initiatives towards climate resilience. The framework not only aims to prepare the metro for climate-related threats but also seeks to identify pathways for positive development. The involvement of the PCC’s Executive Director, Crispian Olver, who delivered a keynote address, underscores the importance of government support in tackling climate change at the local level.

Chamber President Loyiso Dotwana says the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) has identified the Bay as the site for a catalytic multi-stakeholder project to develop such a strategy framework that builds consensus and identifies pathways that show potential for positive development and revitalising communities and the economy. In addition, to act as a catalytic project that could guide other similar initiatives across South Africa at a local level.

The PCC is a multi-stakeholder body established in 2020 by the President of South Africa to advise on the country’s climate change response and support a just transition to a low-carbon climate resilient economy and society.

“While this is a specific initiative by the PCC, who have appointed a local service provider to facilitate and drive the framework development, an action plan of this nature has to be owned by everyone for it to drive behaviour and community action. To this end, the project has already received endorsement from key stakeholders and will work to extend this across Metro,” says Dotwana.

“The service provider, which comprise a team of local Bay experts under the auspices of the Wilderness Foundation Africa, has been tasked, to not only assess the best science and data on the Metro as it relates to climate change, but to engage as wide a range of stakeholders across the Metro to develop the strategy framework,” he says.

Dotwana further highlights that the PCC initiative specifically sought to build on the NMBM Climate Change and Green Economy Action Plan which was released in August 2015, and the Climate Risk Assessment done by the Wilderness Foundation Africa’s CEO and the Chamber’s Immediate President, Dr Andrew Muir in 2021.

The further aim was to integrate this with the just-transition work of the PCC itself and the United Nations (UN) International Panel on Climate Change’s (IPPC) assessments and agreements on adaption, mitigation, more recently climate resilient development pathways.

The acknowledgment of the metro’s existing socio-economic challenges, coupled with an understanding of the additional risks posed by climate change, reinforces the urgency and importance of the initiative. The commitment to collaborative efforts underscores the belief that the metro, through joint actions, can adapt, mitigate, and build resilience to climate change.
According to the pledge, the stakeholders recognise that the metro is already faced with significant socio-economic challenges, including widespread poverty, unemployment and limited access to resources.

It also indicates that they recognise the increased risks and impacts that climate change will bring, including: drought, extreme heat, flooding, tidal surges, food shortages and infrastructure damage, amongst others.

“We also recognise that through collaborative metro-wide efforts we have the opportunity to adapt, mitigate, and build resilience to the change.”

The project aims to develop and embed a multi-stakeholder CRDSF and action plan for the Bay by February/March 2025.
Delivering his remarks during the event, Kelvin Naidoo, the Chamber’s Vice President and Think Tank Lead says the signing of the pledge marks an important milestone as it shows commitment from all relevant stakeholders.

“It was around a year and half ago that the Chamber first engaged with the PCC regarding challenges and opportunities in the Bay – and arising from this, honing in on opportunities in the green economy. It is therefore very heartening to see these discussions are now turning into action,” says Naidoo.

“Too often talk ends up just being talk. In fact, as we all know, one of our country’s shortcomings is that we have many good plans but too seldom do they end up actually being implemented. Our efforts to reinvent the economy, and our manufacturing sector in particular, – ties in perfectly with where the PCC is going in terms of positioning the Bay as a Climate Resilient City,” he says.

“It is our hope that all these co-ordinated efforts will enable our metro to unlock its true potential so that much needed investment and jobs can be retained and created here.”

PCC NMB Signing
Kelvin Naidoo (Chamber Deputy President), Monga Peter (NMB Civil Society Coalition Chairperson), Loyiso Dotwana (Chamber President) and Dr Andrew Muir (Chamber’s Immediate Past President) during the signing of the pledge to build a Climate Resilient City at the Mendi Arts Centre in New Brighton.

Very Lucky 13

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Continuing their legacy of building an environment where employees can thrive, Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) has been named a Top Employer for 2024.

This marks the 13th year in a row that VWSA has been honoured with this certification.

The Top Employer title is an internationally recognised certification from the Top Employers Institute, which is awarded in recognition of employers around the world that provide excellent conditions for their employees. Included in the considerations are the company’s commitment to employee wellbeing, continuous improvement and to developing talent within the organisation.

The list of Top Employers for 2024 was announced on Thursday 18 January. More than 2 300 companies worldwide were certified as Top Employers, including 137 recipients from South Africa.

Criteria for the certification include people strategies, digitalisation initiatives, talent attraction and management, learning opportunities, employee wellbeing, diversity and integrity.

“This certification is a testimony of our ongoing efforts to provide an excellent environment for our employees, one in which they can prosper and grow,” said Russell Coleman, HR Director at VWSA. “Just like our counterparts across the Volkswagen Group, VWSA prides itself on prioritising our employees and their needs, and to be named a Top Employer 13 times in a row shows we are doing something right in this regard. I am immensely proud to be part of an organisation that believes in its people and invests in their potential.”

Chamber and Standard Bank launch Entrepreneurship Desk Accelerator Programme to empower entrepreneurs

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The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber in collaboration with Standard Bank, have launched an Entrepreneurship Desk Accelerator Programme with a significant focus on empowering entrepreneurs in three critical areas.

Chamber’s Business Information Manager Lunga Mjodo says the programme is structured to provide essential skills to entrepreneurs such as leadership, management and entrepreneurial skills.

“It also focuses on compliance and growth matrix by identifying critical gaps within small businesses. This is an analytical approach designed to assess the strengths and weaknesses of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), ensuring they meet regulatory requirements, develop growth strategies and identify areas that need improvement for sustainable growth,” says Mjodo.

The final stage of the programme involves positioning small businesses to access funding, which is achieved through collaboration with Standard Bank and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA).

The program is designed as a multi-stage process, moving from skills development to addressing compliance issues and finally positioning businesses for funding opportunities. The collaboration with Standard Bank shows commitment to providing tangible support for the growth and sustainability of small businesses in the Metro.

“Standard Bank is proud to be associated with the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme in conjunction with the Chamber and other stakeholders. There is an increasing need to inform and empower business owners with information that will enable and grow their businesses to the next level. We recognise that MSMEs are at the core in driving the South African economy and thereby creating employment. The programme is therefore an exciting initiative that seeks to address the key challenges faced by small businesses in areas of management, compliance, and information on how to access funding as well as other financial solutions to ensure business efficiency,” says Jonty Bouw, Head of Eastern Cape Enterprise Banking at Standard Bank.

Bouw further elaborates that the workshops will expose the entrepreneurs to their wealth management specialists who will elaborate on topics such as Succession Planning, Investment Management as well as Risk Management.

“MSME’s can also look forward to a free financial needs analysis including information on our Business Solar Loan offering, Thinkubate mentorship programme and Enterprise Development solutions,” he says.

Other programme partners include the South African Revenue Services (SARS), Joubert, Galpin and Searle (JGS), and SEFA.

Applications for the programme are now open and close on the 31 January 2024 and can be accessed sending an email to smme@nmbbusinesschamber.co.za

Entrepreneurship Desk Accelerator Programme
Ruth Kivedo, (Manager Enterprise Banking – Standard Bank), Zolani Gwentshu (Business Banker – Standard Bank), Bongani Lukhele (Enterprise Development Manager – Standard Bank), Lunga Mjodo (Business Information Manager – Business Chamber), Jonty Bouw (Head: Enterprise Banking – Standard Bank), and Seipati Tsenasi (Relationship Banker Enterprise Direct – Standard Bank).

Coega Maths and Science Programme Achieves Consecutive 100% Pass Rate

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The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is thrilled to announce that its Maths and Science Programme (MSP) Class of 2023 has yet again achieved a remarkable 100% pass rate. This extraordinary achievement follows on from the previous year’s achievement of 100% pass rates in Grade 12 Mathematics and Physical Science.

The MSP Class of 2023 generated ten distinctions in Mathematics and one distinction in Physical Science. Of the ninety (90) learners who completed the programme, the ten top learners were announced this past Friday, with twenty-five learners achieving above 70% in both Mathematics and Physical Science.

Speaking on behalf of the organisation, Mr. Eldon September, Coega Maths and Science Programme Facilitator says: “The organisation is immensely proud of the Class of 2023 and their incredible accomplishment. Their success is a true reflection of the impact that dedicated education and support can have on the lives of young learners. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the students, educators, and all those who have played a part in this achievement.”

The Coega MSP is one of Coega’s flagship Corporate Social Investment (CSI) Programmes, which was formed in 2013 to help matriculants improve their Grade 12 Mathematics and Physical Science results. Through this programme, Coega is able to assist matriculants with free classes and the required support to help improve their marks for university admission. “Coega is the only SEZ in South Africa that has dedicated resources towards the development of the Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) subjects. The MSP is in addition to the Coega Global Scholars Programme (CGSP), launched in 2021, which is a significant milestone for the organisation. The CGSP is a Talent Identification and Retention Programme, which seeks to strengthen the capacity of the organisation by training current and future management talent at postgraduate (Masters) level by sending them to Top Tier Global Universities specialising in STEM and related interdisciplinary studies,” says Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega’s Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications.

The Coega MSP is in line with Coega’s objectives and contributes to its vision of being a leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development by promoting education and skills development.It is guided by ISO 26000in terms of social responsibility and Principle 3 of the King IV Report on Corporate Governance which speaks to responsible corporate citizenship. The Programme is also aligned to the country’s National Development Plan (NDP), Vision 2030, as young people deserve improved educational and economic opportunities.

Shedding light on the programme, September explains: “The Maths and Science Programme aims to reduce the gap between supply and demand of critical scarce skills in the fields of Science, Technology and Engineering. The programme contributes to transforming young lives, providing hope to underprivileged learners who aspire to enhance their academic achievement for university admission.

Our mission is deeply rooted in the belief that education is the key to unlocking a world of opportunities. As facilitators, our aim is not only to impart knowledge but to inspire and motivate learners, guiding them towards a future where their dreams are within reach. This has led to an increased number of new entrants seeking to improve their marks, which is in line with our ultimate role of helping them pursue stimulating occupations that will not only benefit them personally but also improve our society,” adds September.

Congratulations to the Coega Maths and Science Programme Class of 2023 top three learners:

Limpho Fadane (18), who secured 86% in Mathematics and 77% in Physical Science, is set to pursue Biomedical Engineering at the University of Johannesburg, expresses her excitement: “I’m deeply interested in this course, which is why I joined the programme. It combines all the aspects I love, and I’m thrilled with the marks I’ve achieved, marking a great start to the new year, after a year that left me excited.”

Siminique Syce (18), who achieved 83% in Mathematics and 77% in Physical Science and will be pursuing a Bachelor of Science at the University of Witwatersrand, shares: “I’m delighted to pursue my desired course in biology. The MSP played a significant role, bringing unexpected and positive changes to my results. I am grateful for this transformative journey.”

Constance Mushoriwa (19), who achieved 88% in Mathematics and 73% in Physical Sciences will be pursuing Pharmacy at Rhodes University. Her advice to learners is: “Work hard, don’t lose hope, strive to improve your results to pursue your dreams. I faced challenges with 40% results in these subjects last year, but I persevered. The MSP provided hope to fulfil my dreams.”

MSP Class of 2023 Learner Ventures into Science for the first time:

Esona Mshushumbane (19), who pursued science for the first time when joining the programme, shares: “Though I had no prior experience in science, my interest in STEM led me to join the Coega MSP and venture into science for the first time. Excitedly, I have been accepted to study Engineering at Nelson Mandela University. The MSP has been influential in shaping my academic journey. The support and guidance received from the facilitators has been invaluable. With the right skills and knowledge, I will be able to take advantage of this rapidly growing industry and enjoy a fulfilling career with plenty of opportunities.”

As we celebrate this achievement, the Coega Maths and Science Programme remains committed to its mission of nurturing a new generation of STEM professionals who will contribute to the continued growth and development of South Africa.

“This year, we are yet again recruiting one hundred (100) learners to join the 2024 Coega Maths and Science Programme. We are confident that with our support, they can upgrade the quality of their Matric results to be eligible for the tertiary courses and future careers of their choosing,” concludes September.

To apply: Learners must submit their statement of matric results as well as a copy of their South African identity document by hand to security at the Coega Human Capital Solutions (HCS) Building in Zone 4 of the Coega SEZ in Gqeberha, or via email to eldon.september@coega.co.za. MSP enrolment for 2024 will close on 31 January 2024, and preference will be offered to residents of the Nelson Mandela Bay area. A strict selection process will be followed.

With the MSP’s focus being on Mathematics and Physical Science, one of the requirements for learners to be considered is completion of Grade 12, and students must have passed all subjects well, except Mathematics and Physical Science (which they need to have scored above 20%).

Coega MSP classes commence in February 2024, and will continue through to October 2024, Monday to Friday, 08h00 to 16h00.

Disclaimer: Funding is a key enabler for the Coega Skills Development Centre (SDC) to execute its training mandate. Currently, the Coega SDC solicits funding from various SETAs.

Chamber’s 7th Professional Social Connect attracts over 100 participants

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Over 100 emerging professionals from in and around the Bay attended the Nelson Mandela Bay Chamber’s seventh Professional Social Connect (PSC) on 19 January at Mazars, in Humewood. The event was the first for this year and was hosted by the Chamber in partnership with Mazars, with First National Bank (FNB) as the main sponsor.

The programme’s purpose and objective is to create a social platform where emerging professionals are able to meet, connect and network with like-minded professionals. The platform further provides emerging professionals with an opportunity to meet and interact with industry leaders from various businesses across Nelson Mandela Bay, and subsequently secure expert mentors to further support their career or business development. The main objective of the platform is to retain and attract talent in the Metro.

NMBBC Social Connect
FNB’s Eastern Cape Regional Head Sandile Phillip, Chamber CEO Denise van Huyssteen and Lunga Mjodo, Chamber’s Business Information Manager.

The success of the six previous events which were hosted last year, has ignited interest from professionals as far as Johannesburg and Cape Town who would like to participate in the event.

Last year, through the PSC programme, the Chamber established various emerging professionals Think Tanks whose objective was to propose innovative solutions to the many challenges facing the Metro. The Think Tanks, which comprised an average of 10 participants in each of the five Think Tanks, volunteered their time to develop various proposals from water and electricity, tourism, to arts and culture.

Commenting on the event’s success, FNB’s Eastern Cape Regional Head Sandile Phillip said “When great minds meet for a greater good, magic happens”.

“I cannot believe that it has been 15 months since we had our first Professional Social Connect session. I have seen new professional relationships bloom, individuals coming out of their shells, new business opportunities being created and professionals meeting other large employers in the city as alternatives when corporate ceilings have been reached,” said Phillips.

“All of this validates the vision I and some of the business leaders in the Metro have of facilitating a thriving environment for young professionals and entrepreneurs, where networks are built, new opportunities created. In the process, the Metro gets to attract, retain and develop vibrant young professions who believe in the city’s growth prospects.”

Phillip said that with more local and international businesses looking at investing in Nelson Mandela Bay, with businesses such as Stellantis, Hive Hydrogen, S4 Automation and Formex Industries already committed large investments, a positive group of young professionals becomes even more important.

“More people are moving towards coastal areas like Cape Town, George, Mossel Bay and others causing an influx.  As such, an opportunity is presented to Mandela Bay and East London to be the next beneficiaries of semigration. Young professionals are an important part of us getting ready for the opportunities this semigration and new investments bring,” he said. Chamber chief executive Denise van Huyssteen said the attraction and retention of skills is critical if the Metro wants to grow its local economy.

“Young professionals in particular have a key role to play in terms of providing new technology related skills, as well as driving different thinking and innovation to build a more agile and relevant economy. As highly skilled people, with experience and critical skills, move towards retirement age, there needs to be a new pool of talent to succeed them,” said Van Huyssteen.

“Young people are typically those who are most agile and open to moving to bigger cities and other parts of the world for employment opportunities. We need to create a local environment which creates stimulating opportunities for young people so that they want to stay here and become the leaders of the future. An important part of this is establishing strong networks among young people and exposing them more broadly to local economic developments.”