Welding Training Academy – In a major boost to skill development and industrial employment in South Africa, Takklloydengineering, a Durban-based engineering firm, has officially launched its Welding Training Academy to empower local technicians with high-demand technical skills. This initiative is part of the company’s broader commitment to community upliftment, workforce development, and closing the gap between technical education and industry needs.The academy aims to serve as a modern training hub for young adults, school graduates, and semi-skilled workers looking to improve their proficiency in welding—an essential skill in South Africa’s booming construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors.
Why Welding Training Matters in Durban
Durban and the surrounding KwaZulu-Natal region have seen a rise in infrastructure projects, factory expansions, and marine engineering needs. However, there has been a chronic shortage of skilled welders, leading to delays and increased reliance on outside contractors.
- Shortage of certified local welders
- Increase in demand for infrastructure development
- Need for affordable local skills training
- Unemployment rates among youth and semi-skilled workers
The new Welding Training Academy by Takklloydengineering aims to meet these challenges head-on, creating a pool of industry-ready professionals equipped with globally accepted certifications.
Key Features of the Welding Training Academy
The newly launched academy offers world-class training infrastructure, expert trainers, and practical modules aligned with current industry standards.
Training Programs Offered:
- MIG Welding (Metal Inert Gas)
- TIG Welding (Tungsten Inert Gas)
- Stick/Arc Welding
- Gas Welding and Cutting
- Pipe Welding
- Welding Safety & PPE Usage
- Blueprint Reading and Technical Drawing Interpretation
Equipment & Facilities:
- Fully equipped welding bays
- Fume extraction systems for safety
- Modern classrooms for theory sessions
- Personal protective equipment provided to all students
- Guest lectures and seminars from industry veterans
Duration & Certification:
| Program Type | Duration | Certification Body |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Welding | 4 Weeks | Takklloyd Cert. + QCTO |
| Intermediate Course | 8 Weeks | MERSETA + NQF Level 2 |
| Advanced Welding | 12 Weeks | SAWAC + Level 4 Certificate |
| Safety Workshop | 1 Week | OSH Training Module |
The academy partners with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and MERSETA to ensure each certification is industry recognized.
Who Can Apply for the Training?
The program is open to a wide range of individuals, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds or without formal tertiary education.
Eligible Groups Include:
- School leavers (Grade 10–12)
- Unemployed youth (18–35 years)
- Informal sector workers
- Factory helpers seeking upskilling
- Technicians from other disciplines (mechanical, construction)
Community Impact and Employment Opportunities
This academy isn’t just about training—it’s about transformation. Takklloydengineering has pledged to connect top-performing graduates with job opportunities through its own industrial network, as well as via public-private partnerships.
Expected Outcomes:
- Create 300+ certified welders annually
- Support 40% female enrollment by 2026
- Link trainees with Durban Port projects and factory contracts
- Provide stipends to learners from underprivileged households
This initiative aligns with South Africa’s National Development Plan 2030 and the Youth Employment Service (YES) framework, supporting long-term socio-economic development.
Partnership with Local Institutions
Takklloydengineering is also collaborating with:
- TVET Colleges in Durban and Umlazi for student referrals
- The eThekwini Municipality for grant support
- SETA agencies for curriculum development and assessment
- Private construction firms for internship placement
Internship and Job Placement Table:
| Partner Company | No. of Internships | Job Placement Promise |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal TVET Partners | 40/year | Yes (post-internship) |
| Durban Port Projects | 25/year | Yes |
| Local Construction Co. | 35/year | Conditional |
| Takklloyd In-house Unit | 50/year | Guaranteed Top 10% |
These collaborations ensure that training converts directly into employment or further technical specialization.
Vision for the Future
By 2027, Takklloydengineering plans to expand the academy into a full-fledged Technical Excellence Centre, adding courses in fabrication, CNC machining, robotic welding, and quality control inspection.
They also plan to:
- Launch an all-women welding cohort by next year
- Offer hybrid online-theory + in-person practical modules
- Introduce scholarship programs for top school achievers in Durban South
FAQs
Q1. Where is the Welding Training Academy located?
A1. It is located in the industrial hub of Durban South, with easy access via public transport and close to major construction sites.
Q2. Is there any fee to enroll in the basic course?
A2. The basic course is free for eligible youth under 35, sponsored under Takklloydengineering’s community development fund.
Q3. Do students get a certificate that’s recognized by employers?
A3. Yes, all certifications are endorsed by QCTO, MERSETA, or SAWAC and are recognized both locally and internationally.
Q4. Can women apply for this course?
A4. Absolutely! In fact, the academy aims to have 40% women participation by 2026 and provides safety-oriented women-specific sessions.
Q5. What are the employment chances after completing the training?
A5. Very high. Takklloydengineering offers guaranteed placement to the top 10% of performers and links others to local contractors and port authorities.