Ford SA partners with DBE to support technical schools

Ford SA donates engines to technical high schools.

The Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, received a donation of 240 Ford-powered engines. The engines are valued at R7.8-million. Picture: Ford SA Facebook

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has partnered with Ford South Africa to support technical high schools and enhance skills development and training among the youth.

The Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, received a donation of 240 Ford-powered engines, as Ford SA joins the government in creating opportunities to train young people in a technical-orientated career. 

The engines are valued at R7.8-million.

Motshekga said that financial constraints are making it difficult for the Department to empower the youth wholly.

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The donation by Ford, though, will address several of the shortcomings and challenges in South Africa’s education system.

“The Department of Basic Education is delighted to receive the 240 engines from Ford to support the skills revolution in our country.

“The engines we are receiving today will power the future and unleash our learners’ new potential in ways unimaginable before.

“I am glad that Ford has joined our efforts to take us forward, and I am certain that this initiative will contribute to growing our learners’ skills at the school level and beyond.”

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The following skills are considered critical and scarce in South Africa: engineering professionals in electrical, civil, mechanical, industrial and production sectors, computer network and systems engineer, artisans such as electrician, millwright, boilermaker, fitter and turner, carpenter and joiner.

Neale Hill, MD of Ford SA, said: “Ford Motor Company has been a leading player in the South African automotive industry for more than 96 years.

“It’s an exceptionally proud legacy built on continued investment and innovation to build segment-defining products, empowering communities through creating job opportunities, and striving to improve the world around us for a brighter future.”