The National Foundry Technology Network (NFTN) and the National Cleaner Production Centre, South Africa (NCPC-SA) are providing free training courses designed specifically for the foundry and metal casting industry to fulfil the demands of a fast-changing global landscape.
Highlighting NFTN’s commitment
In a previous feature, the NFTN emphasised its commitment to bring about change within the industry. The NFTN, serving as a committee member on the Skills Development Working Group of the Steel Masterplan, has crafted a strategic roadmap aimed at reinvigorating the foundry and metal casting sector. This roadmap comprises four key pillars, and skills development is prominently embedded within each of them.
The National Foundry Technology Network (NFTN) and the National Cleaner Production Centre, South Africa (NCPC-SA) are providing free training courses designed specifically for the foundry and metal casting industry
According to NCPC-SA skills development manager, Zenzile Rasmeni, the courses are meticulously curated to meet the specific needs of the foundry and metal casting industry. They reflect the unwavering commitment of both the NFTN and the NCPC-SA to nurture a skilled, competitive, and thriving sector.
Benefits for foundries
Rasmeni notes the multifaceted benefits of these courses, with particular emphasis on the Resource Efficiency and Cleaner Production (RECP) programme, which harmonises seamlessly with the global sustainable development agenda. This course addresses the pressing need to transition toward green industries and a sustainable economy that balances societal needs with the preservation of natural systems.
In an era where resource scarcity looms large, Rasmeni deems resource efficiency as paramount. She explains: “The course broadens the scope of Cleaner Production (CP) by incorporating resource efficiency, providing foundries with the tools to do more with less.”
According to NCPC-SA skills development manager, Zenzile Rasmeni, the courses are meticulously curated to meet the specific needs of the foundry and metal casting industry
She further emphasises the comprehensiveness of the skills development strategy, which caters to a wide spectrum of workforce competencies, offering training that encompasses fundamental abilities and cutting-edge knowledge.
“By participating in these courses, foundries have the opportunity to improve their competitiveness and open doors to new markets and opportunities,” Rasmeni explains.
Foundry participation requirements
Foundries looking to leverage these courses should note the following criteria for enrolment. Prospective participants must currently work within the foundry industry, demonstrate an interest in expanding their knowledge in investment casting, or represent an institution with a vested interest in foundry technology.
Interested foundry professionals can complete their registration by accessing the dedicated NCPC-SA online portal at https://www.industrialefficiency.co.za/courses-offered/ or, for further inquiries, contact the NFTN & NCPC-SA Skills Development Department at ncpc@csir.co.za.
These initiatives demonstrate the commitment of the NFTN and NCPC-SA to skills development as well as to advancing the foundry and metal casting sector as it navigates a rapidly shifting global environment.
