Since opening its doors for the training of healthcare workers in July, many have enrolled at the Robert Sobukwe Nursing Academy to train as caregivers and assistant nurses.
It started with a part-time group at Strand Secondary School and the numbers have grown ever since. The programmes have expanded and include first-aid training, HIV/Aids counselling and rapid testing.
With the current economy in tatters, it has become more difficult for community members to find employment. However, the number of academy students being employment is on the rise so far.
“This is great news for our institution and it will drive us keep expanding the programmes, not for the sake of obtaining a certificate, but to enable and assist students to put food on the table,” said one of the programme drivers and local teacher Shakoor Vallie. “Forming a partnership with Helderberg Youth Academy is paying dividends for locals as far as Grabouw and Eerste River.”
He stated the academy’s mission is to assist struggling communities, especially the unemployed, and plant a seed of hope.
“We strive to keep costs low and affordable, with the Robert Sobukwe Nursing Academy being proud to be the least expensive training institution in the Helderberg. We do our utmost to place students for employment.”
Early next year, the academy, in collaboration with the Helderberg Youth Academy and the Africa Foundation of Learning, will launch online matric and skills courses. Its vision is to ensure each community child masters a skill, with the hope that these programmes will remain with them.
“It is our duty as caring members of society to take care of the advancement and well-being of our community,” said Vallie.
“Our qualifications as professionals carry no value if we cannot assist our fellow human beings. It is about time to bring the values of ubuntu to our communities. This will be a good heritage for future generations to celebrate with pride.”
Vallie further appealed to learned professionals and successful businesses in the Helderberg to join forces with the academy to help shape a better society.
For more information or to get involved, phone Vallie on 078 392 9842.
