The Gauteng Department of Economic Development (GDED) on Tuesday celebrated more than a graduation ceremony; it celebrated the success of a programme that is transforming lives, strengthening businesses and preparing Gauteng residents to participate meaningfully in the economy.
The graduates represented the culmination of two phases of the programme, which focused on developing skills across Gauteng’s priority economic sectors, including automotive, aerospace, agro-processing, mining, transport and logistics, chemicals, global business services, financial services, tourism, retail, clothing and textiles, furniture, cultural and creative industries, enterprise and supplier development, energy, and installation, repairs and maintenance.
The High Impact Partnership Delivery Model was established to bring together government, the private sector, industry associations, development finance institutions and training providers to create practical, market-driven interventions that respond to Gauteng’s economic needs. Through these partnerships, the Department has been addressing youth unemployment, supporting entrepreneurs, improving access to markets and equipping beneficiaries with industry-relevant skills that prepare them for employment and business growth.
Since its implementation, the programme has trained 2 500 young people, supported 11 180 MSMEs, created and sustained 629 employment opportunities, and generated more than R17.24 million in turnover and economic activity. Beyond these achievements, the programme has strengthened enterprise competitiveness, expanded market access and increased the participation of youth and women in the provincial economy.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Gauteng Economic Development, Agriculture and Rural Development MEC Vuyiswa Ramokgopa said the ceremony represented far more than the awarding of certificates.
“This is simply not a graduation. It is a demonstration of what is possible when government invests in people and works hand in hand with industry and strategic partners. Every graduate represents hope, resilience and opportunity. Through the High Impact Partnership Delivery Model, we are equipping young people with the skills, confidence and practical experience they need to become employable, create businesses and contribute meaningfully to Gauteng’s economy. As the Gauteng Government, we remain committed to fighting unemployment by creating opportunities that empower our people and build a skilled workforce for the future,” she said.
GDED Head of Department Motlatjo Moholwa said the programme had become an important pillar in strengthening Gauteng’s investment proposition.
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“Investors are attracted to economies that have a capable, skilled and adaptable workforce. Through the High Impact Partnership Delivery Model, we are developing young people and entrepreneurs who are ready to participate in the economy and meet industry needs. This programme plays a critical role in ensuring that Gauteng remains an attractive investment destination by building the skills, innovation and enterprise base that drives economic growth.”
The programme’s impact was reflected in the stories shared by graduates.
One of the beneficiaries, Lindiwe Khubone, completed the Business Process Services (BPS) – DeafTouch Programme, an initiative delivered in partnership with Business Process Enabling South Africa (BPESA). The partnership established Africa’s first Deaf-to-Deaf Sign Language Contact Centre, creating employment opportunities while improving digital accessibility and communication for the Deaf community.
Reflecting on her journey, Khubone said: “This programme taught me so much. I gained entrepreneurial skills, learned the value of teamwork and developed the confidence to work with and empower others. As a member of the Deaf community, I understand the challenges we face every day. Through DeafTouch, communication is becoming more accessible, and we are creating opportunities to empower more Deaf people. Today, I feel knowledgeable, empowered and confident about my future, and I am proud to be a graduate of this programme.”
The Gauteng Department of Economic Development remains committed to expanding strategic partnerships that stimulate inclusive economic growth, create jobs and ensure that more Gauteng residents are equipped to seize opportunities in the province’s priority sectors.