Value of learnerships

There are so much more to gain from learnerships than just an income as Rustim Ariefdien explains

Rustim ariefdien
5 Min Read

There are so much more to gain from learnerships than just an income as Rustim Ariefdien explains

Learnerships play a crucial role in empowering individuals with disabilities in South Africa. These structured programmes combine theoretical learning with practical work experience, providing participants with valuable skills, knowledge, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Let’s delve deeper into the significance of learnerships for persons with disabilities and highlight the benefits they offer.

Education

Learnerships promote equal access to education and training for persons with disabilities. By participating in these programmes, individuals can acquire qualifications and skills that enhance their employability. Whether it’s vocational training, technical skills or soft skills development, learnerships create a level playing field for all, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.

Experience

Learnerships provide hands-on experience in real-world settings. Participants learn by doing, gaining practical skills that are directly applicable to their chosen fields. For persons with disabilities, this practical experience is invaluable.

It bridges the gap between theory and practice, preparing them for the workforce and increasing their chances of securing meaningful employment.

Consider the example of Naledi, a young woman with visual impairment who participated in a learnership programme focused on web development. Through hands-on coding projects, she honed her skills in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Her confidence grew as she built accessible websites, and the experience opened doors to freelance opportunities and eventually a full-time job as a web developer.

Self-confidence

Participating in learnerships boosts self- confidence and self-sufficiency. As learners acquire new skills and overcome challenges, they develop a sense of achievement and belief in their abilities.

For persons with disabilities, who often face societal barriers and stereotypes, this confidence-building aspect is transformative. Learnerships provide a platform for them to prove their capabilities and contribute meaningfully to society.

Imagine Thabo, a young man with a hearing impairment who joined a learnership programme in hospitality management. Through practical rotations in hotel operations, he learned to communicate effectively with guests, manage reservations, and handle customer complaints. Thabo’s newfound confidence allowed him to excel in his role, and he eventually became a supervisor at a prestigious hotel.

Networking opportunity

Learnerships foster social connections and networking opportunities. Participants interact with peers, mentors, and industry professionals. For persons with disabilities, who may experience isolation or exclusion, these interactions are vital. Networking opens doors to employment prospects, mentorship, and community support. It also breaks down stereotypes and promotes inclusion.

Zinhle, a wheelchair user who participated in a learnership programme for graphic design, collaborated with fellow learners on creative projects, attended industry workshops, and connected with established designers. Through networking, she secured freelance gigs and even exhibited her artwork at a local gallery.

People with disabilities can rest assured that accommodations can be made during the learnership programme. These might include:

  • Accessible Learning Materials: Braille textbooks, screen readers, and large- print materials ensure that information is accessible to all.
  • Assistive Technologies: From speech recognition software to adaptive keyboards, assistive technologies empower learners to overcome barriers.
  • Flexible Schedules: Learnerships accommodate medical appointments, therapy sessions, and other disability-related commitments.
  • Reasonable Adjustments: Physical modifications, such as ramps or elevators, make training venues accessible.

The ultimate goal of learnerships is to facilitate a smooth transition from training to employment. By equipping learners with relevant skills and practical experience, these programmes enhance their employability.

Employers recognise the value of learnerships and often hire participants as permanent employees. For persons with disabilities, securing sustainable employment is a significant achievement, leading to financial independence and improved quality of life.

Learnerships empower persons with disabilities by providing education, skills, and opportunities. They contribute to a more inclusive society where everyone has a chance to thrive. As South Africa continues to prioritise disability inclusion, learnerships remain a powerful tool for positive change.

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Rustim ariefdien
Disability Expert
Rustim Ariefdien is a disability expert extraordinaire, who assists businesses to “let the Ability of disAbility enAble their profitAbility” through BBBEE, skills development, employment equity and socio-economic development. He ensures that businesses are able to maximise their points on the BBBEE scorecard and become compliant with legislative requirements as stipulated in the Employment Equity and Skills Development Acts. His purpose is the economic empowerment of persons with disability in Africa. As a person with a disability himself, he has extensive experience in the development and empowerment of persons with disability.
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