Northam's ISO 9001-accredited Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET) centre is recognized by the Mines Qualification Authority (MQA) and the National Department of Education as an educational provider to the equivalent of grade 9 level. The programme, which was launched in 1994, at that stage offered only English communication up to level 3. In 2002 e-learning was introduced and classes became more interactive, with teachers assuming the role of facilitators.
The ABET centre now boasts a total of 65 computers with five facilitators who all hold tertiary qualifications as ABET facilitators. The number of classes has also increased to accommodate a growing demand among employees. In 2005 R1.2 million was spent on ABET, with a total of 932 learners attending classes, and a pass rate of 90%.
A variety of programmes are offered including numeracy and literacy (language and communication). These are basics and commence from level 1. At level 3 learners should have mastered the basics of English reading and writing skills. The learners are then introduced to technology, natural, human and social sciences.
Johannes Malei is a training instructor at Northam Platinum. He started ABET level 1 in 1996 and has just done level 4 fundamentals which has enabled him to apply for a certificate as a miner. He will be writing his exam and hopefully qualify before the end of the year. "ABET has helped in giving me choices. It is a gateway to success and different opportunities," says the father
of eight.
Nevertheless functional literacy tests as measured at the company's Development Centre, using national Department of Education tests have indicated average literacy levels at the mine of 59%, and much work remains to be done in this area.
Northam is currently engaged in talks with the national educational authorities to improve its educational offering so that employees will be able to obtain grade 12 (equivalent to matric) certificates, which will allow them to progress into other career opportunities beyond mining.