Discover how the United Manganese of Kalahari (UMK) Portable Skills Training Programme 2026 equips unemployed South Africans with accredited, hands-on skills in construction, welding, agriculture, safety, and more. A fully funded training opportunity designed to improve employability and support community development.
The United Manganese of Kalahari (UMK) continues to drive community empowerment through its 2026 Portable Skills Training Programme, an initiative that gives individuals the opportunity to develop essential technical and entrepreneurial skills. This programme is part of UMKās long-standing commitment to socio-economic upliftment in mining communities and across South Africa.
Created for people who want to secure better futures through skills development, the programme provides high-quality, accredited training without requiring participants to pay fees.
Understanding the Purpose of the Programme
UMKās goal is to empower unemployed South Africans with skills they can use immediately, whether they choose to seek formal employment or create their own income streams. These āportableā skills are relevant across multiple industries, enabling participants to work anywhere in the country.
Who Should Apply
The programme is open to individuals who are:
- Unemployed and seeking opportunities
- Interested in technical and practical skills
- Ready to learn through hands-on training
- Motivated to improve their employability
- Eager to develop entrepreneurial capabilities
UMKās training is structured to support participants from all educational backgrounds, including those with limited prior experience.
Skills Offered in the Programme
Participants may receive training in several high-demand areas, including:
- Carpentry
- Welding
- Basic electrical maintenance
- Plumbing
- Bricklaying and building
- Agricultural production
- Sewing and textile creation
- Construction assistance
- Business development and entrepreneurship
- Occupational health and safety basics
Programmes are facilitated by accredited training providers to ensure quality results and recognised certification.
Why This Programme Matters
In many communities, access to technical training is limited or unaffordable. UMKās initiative addresses these challenges by offering fully funded instruction that empowers individuals to build strong livelihoods.
Key advantages include:
Useful Links:
- In-demand skills that promote employability
- Certificates recognised by multiple industries
- Practical training with real tools and equipment
- The possibility of self-employment after completion
- Improved household income and community development
The programme contributes to long-term socio-economic growth by equipping people with the tools needed to break cycles of unemployment.
Applicant Eligibility
To apply, individuals generally must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be currently unemployed
- Reside in areas targeted by the programme (if specified)
- Provide necessary identification and documents
- Be willing to participate in full-time training
Additional criteria may be shared during the recruitment phase.
How the Application Process Usually Works
Applicants typically complete a form, submit documents, and undergo a screening process. Successful candidates are then invited to participate in training for the duration of the programme.
Programme Outcomes
Upon completion, participants receive accredited certificates. Many graduates go on to:
- Secure employment in technical fields
- Start small businesses
- Work as freelancers in their local communities
- Assist with construction or maintenance projects
- Expand their skills through additional training
- APPLICATION EMAIL: [email protected]
The programme is an essential stepping stone toward skills development and economic independence.
Conclusion
The UMK Portable Skills Training Programme 2026 stands as one of South Africaās most impactful community development initiatives, providing unemployed individuals with the chance to build practical, marketable skills. With accredited training, hands-on experience, and comprehensive support, it opens the door to new opportunities and long-term stability.