ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
70 GRADUATES COMPLETE CITY'S FURNITURE MANUFACTURING PROGRAMME
EThekwini Municipality has reinforced its commitment to addressing unemployment through skills development, with 70 beneficiaries graduating from the City's Furniture Manufacturing Skills Development Programme.
The graduation ceremony, held this week at the Umkhumbane Entrepreneurial Support Centre in Cato Manor, celebrated beneficiaries from the class of 2025/26 who received South African Qualifications Authority accredited National Qualifications Framework Level 2 certificates.
Of the graduates, 30 completed the 12-month programme, while 40 completed the three-month programme.
The graduates received practical training in home and office furniture manufacturing, upholstery, design presentation, business etiquette, and industry best practices.
The programme is delivered in partnership with the Furniture Processing and Manufacturing SETA, Colab Design and Manufacturing, PG Bison, the Small Enterprise Development Agency, and My Space Academy.
Chairperson of the City's Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli, said the graduation reflects the Municipality's continued investment in empowering residents through practical, market-driven skills.
"This graduation marks another significant milestone in our efforts to equip residents with practical, income-generating skills. It positions our graduates to become entrepreneurs, job creators, and innovators who contribute meaningfully to inclusive local economic growth," said Councillor Ntuli.
He added that the Municipality is exploring the establishment of a cutting and edging facility to improve access to specialised machinery and increase production capacity for micro, small and medium enterprises.
Ward 29 Councillor Bhekisisa Mngadi said the programme restores dignity by creating pathways to employment and entrepreneurship for communities that have historically faced economic exclusion.
Now in its eighth year, the programme has empowered more than 250 beneficiaries since its inception.
Many graduates have been employed or created employment, with approximately 20 recent graduates securing jobs at Colab Design and Manufacturing.
Among the programme's success stories is Nozuko Nxongo, founder of BNK Interior Design and Built-ins.
"This programme changed my life. I started as a learner, and today I own a factory and employ others," she said.
Another graduate, Ayanda Zuma, founder of Elo Interiors, said the programme opened opportunities that transformed her business.
"Being part of this programme opened doors I never imagined. Showcasing my work at the 2026 Durban Business Fair, winning the Best Stand Award, and securing ongoing orders proved that my skills are valuable in the market," she said.
The Municipality remains committed to expanding skills development initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, stimulate local economic growth, and create sustainable employment opportunities for residents.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality's Marketing and Communications Directorate
