In a drive to tackle youth unemployment and support small business development, Mogale City’s Local Economic Development Division, in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Economic Development and U-Swipe Telecoms, has launched a hands-on cellphone repair training programme. The initiative equips unemployed youth with practical technical skills while also empowering them to start and grow their own businesses.
The programme has successfully enrolled 30 unemployed young people, providing them with an accredited Cellphone Repairs Certificate at NQF Level 4. Through this training, participants gain valuable technical expertise and hands-on industry experience, enabling them to access employment opportunities within the telecommunications sector or pursue self-employment. Importantly, the programme places a strong emphasis on inclusivity by prioritising youth, women, and persons with disabilities.
Beyond technical training, the initiative focuses on holistic development. Participants are empowered to build confidence, unlock their potential, and develop an entrepreneurial mindset. The curriculum includes skills in diagnosing, assessing, reporting, and repairing mobile devices, complemented by exposure to business management principles and networking opportunities.
A key strength of the programme lies in its strategic partnerships. Collaborations with industry players including MTN and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) such as HONOR, OPPO, and VIVO, ensuring that participants receive relevant, market-aligned training. In addition, trainees are placed at U-Swipe Telecoms for practical workplace experience, where they benefit from hands-on learning, on-the-job coaching, and exposure to end-to-end business operations.
This initiative aligns with the Gauteng Provincial Government’s broader development agenda under the Growing Gauteng Together (GGT2030) vision. It contributes to employment creation, economic growth, and skills development, while advancing the goal of building a resilient and inclusive economy where all residents have access to meaningful economic opportunities.
The programme also supports environmental sustainability by promoting the repair and reuse of electronic devices, thereby reducing electronic waste and encouraging responsible consumption practices.
Upon completion, participants will receive continued support to transition into entrepreneurship. This includes access to rental trading stalls in key locations such as Kagiso, Krugersdorp, Chamdor, Munsieville, where they can establish and operate their own cellphone repair businesses.
Further support will be provided by the National Youth Development Agency, which will assist participants in accessing funding opportunities to grow and sustain their enterprises beyond the training period.