In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering social inclusion and economic empowerment, Engen has unveiled its inaugural Call Centre Skills Centre (CSC) learnership programme, which is set to welcome ten new trainees—all young people with disabilities—beginning on 1 July 2025.
This ambitious project is part of Engen’s ongoing commitment to address youth unemployment, bridge critical skills gaps, and promote inclusivity throughout South Africa.
“Creating employment through targeted skills development is not just a business strategy – it’s a national imperative,” stated Dee Mdeka, Engen’s Skills Development Facilitator. As the country grapples with the challenges of high unemployment rates, particularly among young people, Engen’s initiative presents a vibrant solution that seeks to empower individuals who often face additional barriers in the job market.
The inaugural call centre learnership commenced on 1 June 2024, concluding on 31 May 2025, and successfully provided comprehensive training to five aspiring graduates. This initial group, which also included individuals with disabilities, demonstrated the potential of the programme to transform lives. By equipping these learners with essential skills, confidence, and valuable workplace experience, Engen opened doors to brighter futures. Three of these graduates have now secured full-time positions as Frontline Representatives at Engen’s Customer Services Centre in Cape Town, taking on crucial responsibilities such as order placement, query logging, and job card processing for clients across South Africa.
“This has changed my life,” expressed Thando Kondowe, one of the successful graduates. “I now have a career, not just a job. Thank you to everyone at Engen who believed in me and gave me a chance.”
Another graduate, Sandi Jama, shared her excitement: “Being offered a full-time position is a dream come true. I came into this programme with hope, and I’m leaving with a career. Thank you, Engen.” Meanwhile, Msizi Ganthso reflected on the personal growth he experienced during the programme: “The support I received during the programme helped me grow both personally and professionally. I’m grateful to be joining the Engen family permanently.”
Shireen Knipe, Engen Frontline Manager, celebrated the achievements of these new team members, noting their impressive adaptability, professionalism, and commitment to service excellence—qualities that speak volumes about the effectiveness of the learnership.
With the upcoming intake of ten new trainees, Engen not only seeks to address the pressing skills shortages in the call centre industry but also aligns with its goals of employment equity and disability inclusivity. “Beyond technical training, we’ve built robust support structures—PC literacy upskilling, accessible learning materials, adaptive technology, and dedicated mentorship,” added Mdeka. This comprehensive approach ensures that all learners can thrive, regardless of their abilities.
The CSC learnership also adheres to global standards for inclusive education, as outlined in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 4 and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, while resonating with South Africa’s 2015 White Paper on Disability. As Dee Mdeka summarised, “Unemployment remains one of South Africa’s biggest challenges. Through targeted, inclusive skills development, we’re building a pipeline of talented, workplace-ready youth who will help power the country’s future.”
