Construction World July 2021

Theoret ical t raining and discussion tak ing place.

Welcome to the PPC Training Academy.

growth. In recognition of the fact that education remains a catalyst and equaliser in empowering communities to experience a better quality of life, the business’ innovative training solutions brings the country closer to realising a competent, skilled and capable workforce to support South Africa’s inclusive growth path. “The pandemic has only served to deepen our confidence in this fact. As a 100% local business that has invested 129 years into providing 100% quality products into the country, we remain invested in using the opportunity to share our knowledge with local communities, small businesses and aspiring young people in the construction sector to move South Africa forward. We are optimistic about the efficient, competitive and responsive economic infrastructure network the government is committed to developing as part of the National Development Plan 2030. These individuals and the SMMEs will become the backbone of our growing economy,” explains Lekula. PPC’s training solutions leverage the business’s national footprint, community investment and technical expertise to create a shared market value for all in the sector. Its national footprint is leveraged by using its cement factories for training venues and therefore remains accessible to all who purchase a bag of PPC Cement. Closing the gap Adaptive to the macro and micro-economic factors that are unique to each regional construction project, PPC’s training solutions improve the skills of local brick-makers, enabling them to not only understand the science of accurate mixing of all the necessary materials to produce quality bricks, but also to run their brick-making business efficiently and profitably. “After the pandemic, many employers have been reluctant to invest in training for their staff because of the economic environment in the country,” says Lekula. “PPC is closing the gap of training within the construction industry. We recognise the value of investing in the education of SMMEs across the country and remain committed to providing these skills while ensuring we continue to provide technical support to all our customers.” The success of this initiative can be seen through the work at Style Africa Paving and Cladding in Soshanguve, Sisters Bricks and Blocks Construction in Gqeberha,16 Etona Sand & Bricks CC in Ga-Rankuwa, and Zonke Bonke Hardware & Steel in Khayelitsha, to mention a few This competitive solution is enabled by the principles of the fourth industrial revolution. PPC’s training sessions for bricklaying, plastering, construction management, are CETA accredited through the Motheo Construction Academy and supported by PPC sales specialists and PPC’s technical team. “It is our mission to empower the community to experience a

Pract ical t raining is done at PPC Training Academy.

better quality of life. For this reason, we have developed a sustainable way to give communities, SMMEs and young people a purpose while encouraging them to play an active part in all development efforts. This purpose is focused on demonstrating how everyone can create a quality product that is supported by a business that is a Proudly South African member. This locally manufactured product is scientifically formulated for South Africa’s unique and changing construction needs. With these tools and knowledge provided, each individual leaves our training sessions better placed to enter the local economy with a new skill and renewed confidence,” concludes Lekula.  ABOUT PPC LTD PPC is an iconic material and solutions provider of quality and consistent cement, aggregates, metallurgical-grade lime, burnt dolomite, limestone, ready-mix and fly ash. It also provides technical support to its customers. PPC’s story stretches back over 129 years to where it was first incorporated on the outskirts of Pretoria in 1892. As the first cement plant in South Africa, it has established itself as a resilient organisation by adapting to ever-changing economic, operating and political environments. This sub-Saharan brand continues to grow beyond South African borders into Botswana, Zimbabwe, Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda where its footmark extends. PPC is proud to be a leading provider of quality building materials and solutions to empower people to experience a better quality of life.

19 CONSTRUCTION WORLD JULY 2021