JSE-listed diversified mining company Exxaro has announced a new supplier development partnership with the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS).
The two organisations are launching a new contractor development programme that aims to promote and support the advancement and empowerment of local Exxaro suppliers by providing them with business education and mentorship.
So far, 31 businesses have been approved to enrol in the course, with the first intake running from November 2020 to November 2021.
It is anticipated that a total of 90 participants will be enrolled in three intakes.
The programme will provide a unique intervention that combines selected accredited unit standards with customised mining and Exxaro-specific content to maximise impact and relevance for participants.
The programme was developed in partnership with the GIBS Entrepreneurship Development Academy (EDA), which was launched in 2012.
Exxaro’s contractor development programme intends to improve the business management and technical skills of the identified contractors and give these entrepreneurs a better understanding of how to overcome the operational challenges they face.
The scope of the programme will cover four primary domains, namely leadership, entrepreneurship, people management, and business management practices. It is intended to empower participants to acquire the industry knowledge, skills, attitudes and values required to make their businesses more competitive, and to respond to the challenges of the economic environment.
Throughout the course, Exxaro representatives will present case studies that are relatable and impactful, on technical topics such as procurement and payment processes.
Active mentorship is also an important aspect of the programme.