Lack of Practical Training and Delayed Placement for Welding Program at MCD Training Academy.

As we approach the 7th month of what is supposed to be a 12-month course for year 1, we are deeply concerned about the lack of practical training and placement opportunities.

Historically, in previous training and apprenticeship programs, including those undertaken by my husband and brother-in-law, the academy would already have vetted companies and secured placements for students as soon as their theory portion was completed. However, this has not been the case in our current situation, where the theory training was completed first, and only then was the search for businesses initiated. This has caused significant delays and is wasting precious months of my son's potential practical training time.

Moreover, in past programs, when apprentices were not immediately placed with a business, they were still allowed to continue their training at the academy for the full duration of their course, receiving the necessary practical experience. Unfortunately, my son has been at home for the last four months with no opportunity to continue his practical training, severely affecting his educational progress.

We were also informed by MCD Training Academy that, due to my son’s registration with merSETA, he is not allowed to seek alternative employment, as he is not permitted to receive a salary. This has put him in a difficult situation, as he is unable to support himself financially, placing additional strain on me, as I am a dialysis-dependent renal failure patient, and the burden of supporting him has become overwhelming.

Given the ongoing delay in his training and the serious consequences on his education, financial independence, and career prospects, I urge anyone considering this program to proceed with extreme caution. The lack of practical training and placement arrangements is an unacceptable situation, and it is important that prospective students fully understand the potential risks and delays involved.

I sincerely hope this issue will be addressed promptly, and look forward to a resolution.