PRASA Celebrates Milestone with 200 Modern Trains Manufactured in Gauteng
Image Source: The18 X’Trapolis Mega. Credit: Alstom
Published by: Dimphotsentle Pule
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has reached a significant milestone with the manufacturing of 200 modern high-tech Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) in Gauteng as part of its Rolling Stock Fleet Renewal Programme.
Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga announced the achievement on Tuesday in Cape Town, highlighting the progress made towards the goal of 600 new trains. The introduction of these trains contributes to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation alternatives.
Job Creation and Local Impact
The Rolling Stock Fleet Renewal Programme is not only about the manufacturing of new trains but also aims to create employment opportunities. Over a 10-year period, the programme is expected to generate approximately 1,500 direct jobs and 8,000 indirect jobs.
During the construction phase of the R1 billion factory, 1,631 direct jobs were created, and now, Gibela has employed over 1,198 full-time employees. These jobs have benefited local communities such as Duduza, Vosloorus, Katlehong, Kwa-Thema, Tsakane, and Alfra-Park.
Skills Development and Knowledge Transfer
Gibela has also focused on skills development and knowledge transfer. Around 20,000 training programs have been established to transfer skills from top management to unskilled employees. Additionally, a multi-sector business incubator was established in the Kwa-Thema Township, benefiting 140 Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) through training, mentorship, and coaching.
PRASA’s efforts extend to education and development initiatives, including providing bursaries for university and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, internships, learnerships, apprenticeships, and relevant railway introduction courses.
Through these interventions, PRASA aims to nurture a skilled workforce that will contribute to the revitalization of the railway and manufacturing industry while positively impacting the lives of previously disadvantaged individuals and communities.
The investment in skills development and enterprise development initiatives underscores PRASA’s commitment to inclusion in the rail sector, with a total investment of R743 million dedicated to supporting skills development over a 10-year period.
Minister Chikunga emphasized the transformative impact of PRASA’s initiatives, highlighting the development of young artisans, engineering technicians, technologists, and designers, as well as the significant investments in Enterprise and Supplier Development to uplift SMMEs and promote inclusion in the rail sector.
About The Author
