Training as a tool for SMME development within the youth sector of the KOSH area

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT:An effort to enhance job creation and to alleviate poverty amongst the youth as an importantsector of the South African society has created a need to determine the relevance of trainingas a way of promoting SMME development in the KOSH area. Training is an important toolfor SMME development.Based on the above analysis, the objectives of the study are to assess the relevance of trainingprovided in relation to the economic profile and business opportunities in the KOSH area andto assess the effectiveness of training that is provided by various agencies in the KOSH area.The study also looks into the business and employment opportunities put in place to helpyouth participation after undergoing training. The study focuses on training as a tool forSMME development within the youth sector of the KOSH area. It mainly deals with theimportance of training, which if conducted in a proper manner, should contribute to thedevelopment of SMME.While policies and institutions have been put in place to provide technical and businesstraining skills in the KOSH area, targeting both women and youth who aspires to beentrepreneurs, there seem to be not significant expansion of the small business in order tocreate job opportunities. The status quo remains. Participants from these trainingprogrammes are pursuing their traditional form of business and there is little, if any,innovation and diversification in economic activities in this sector.Conclusions based on the study indicate that training should be an integral component forany SMME development strategy. Programmes promoting entrepreneurial culture shouldtarget all studying young people, and also those not enrolled at institutions of learning. Theprivate sector seems to be playing a minimal role in the provision of training. This sector'scontribution in training programmes, in a partnership with pubic institutions, is lacking. Aftercare services to trainees is not provided for adequately. Planning for effective SMMEtraining in the KOSH area should further take into consideration technology, social,economic, political and institutional factors which are affecting it at the moment.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University