Tech Scene ZA

Hisense SA launches year-long learnership programme for Atlantis youth

Atlantis, South Africa – Hisense SA’s manufacturing plant in Atlantis welcomed 100 young people from the local community today, to embark on a year-long learnership and skills development programme. The initiative, led by the consumer electronics and home appliances company, in partnership with EduPower Skills Academy, is supported by the Manufacturing, Engineering & Related Services Education and Training Authority (MERSETA) and the Wholesale & Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA).

The programme offers unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 28 the opportunity to gain both theoretical training and practical work experience, culminating in a SETA-accredited qualification. Learners will attend classes and participate in full-time, Monday-to-Friday workplace environments, ensuring a well-rounded foundation for their future employment.

“This is more than a learnership – it’s a catalyst for real economic participation,” said Denise Rapitsi, CEO of YCCI.SA. “By giving young people in Atlantis accredited skills and hands-on experience, Hisense SA and its partners are not only tackling unemployment, they’re opening doors to futures our youth can build for themselves. This isn’t just basic manufacturing, it’s high-tech and digital innovation. It offers our youth the skills to compete on a global stage. I am inspired by this great initiative, and optimistic that in future, with Hisense SA, we can grow opportunities that create jobs, close the equality gap, and level the playing field for the next generation”

“We launched this initiative because we care deeply about creating opportunities that expand access to education for young people, especially those that combine classroom learning with on-the-job training. A year-long learnership provides a powerful pathway capable of equipping our youth with the skills and experience they need to take meaningful steps toward a successful and fulfilling career,” said Robin Murray, HR Group Director at Hisense SA. 

“The initiative also forms part of our steadfast commitment to always give back to the communities we operate in. By investing in the talent and working experiences of young people in Atlantis, we are investing in the long-term prosperity of the region. Our goal is to equip these learners with the skills, confidence, and experience they need to thrive in today’s workplace.”

The programme will be facilitated by the EduPower Skills Academy, a specialist training provider, who will deliver the academic components while ensuring learners gain relevant industry exposure.

Divan Barnardo, Sales Director for EduPower, stressed the value of meaningful partnerships to expand opportunities for our youth to obtain the training and qualifications they need to succeed in today’s competitive economy: “We are proud to partner with Hisense SA on this initiative. Over the next year, participants will not only obtain a formal qualification but also valuable workplace experience that bridges the gap between education and employment. This combination is key to empowering young people to enter the job market with a competitive edge.”

Funded by Hisense SA the programme is designed to tackle youth unemployment by providing qualifications linked to real industry opportunities. Hisense SA’s commitment to local skills development reflects its broader mission to uplift and support the communities in which it operates.

“The programme symbolises our hope for, and shared sense of duty to, the youth of South Africa” Murray concluded. “We look forward to seeing these 100 young people grow, succeed, and contribute positively to their families, their community, and the broader South African economy.”