A national Business Process enabling SA (BPeSA) training grant runs out in mid-year, but another one could be in the pipeline.
In 2008, the Business Trust, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and BPeSA launched Monyetla as a pilot project, with the aim of providing unemployed young South Africans with employment through the BPO industry.
The success of the initial project, which saw 1 000 learners sign on to receive training, led to a second phase being launched in July last year. Some 3 400 learners across SA joined the second phase, which runs until July this year.
BPeSA Western Cape CEO Gareth Pritchard expects about 70% of these learners to be placed, which will create about 300 jobs in the Western Cape alone. He says a third phase, to continue after July, is being discussed by the National Skills Fund and the DTI.
Pritchard says the project creates a workforce that can be employed in the sector. He says a further phase is under review, although no details are yet available. Monyetla complements the DTI's initiatives, which are geared at getting foreign investors to set up shop in SA, he says.
The DTI's grants came into effect in January and aim to reduce the cost of business process outsourcing operations in SA by up to 20%, as investors will be paid R112 000 for each full-time job created and maintained.
Pritchard says Monyetla creates a potential workforce, which foreign investors can use to recruit staff.
The Monyetla Work Readiness Programme is a 16-week course, consisting of an initial theoretical and practical training component. The course involves 160 hours of call centre experience and is followed by a minimum six-month employment period.
The National Skills Fund has set aside funding of R18 150 for each learner that successfully completes the programme. The amount is divided among the recruiters, training providers and employers, as well as a stipend for each learner.
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