More skills for hard-working Bernard

Bernard Ramanala is an earth-moving machine operator at the De Beers Venetia Mine.

He enjoyed a happy childhood growing up in Musina, and his parents describe him as a child who enjoyed going to school and church and who loved to watch TV. After two years of working, Bernard joined Venetia Mine in 2003 as a truck operator.

While Bernard enjoyed his job, he sometimes found it difficult to comprehend what he was reading at work. 

He wanted to improve his reading skills and so, when he was offered the chance, he signed up for the Media Works FLC course that was offered through his employer in 2013. Since completing the year-long course, Bernard now has the skills to understand what tasks are required of him to complete his job, which helps him to cope a lot better at work.

The skills Bernard learnt through FLC are assisting him in his work and personal life. “It has taught me how to draw up a budget, do calculations at work, my reading skills have improved and I have a better understanding of tasks required in my job.”

Bernard now finds it easier to engage with colleagues who come from different backgrounds to his own. 

“I have learnt that people are different and I must respect other people’s cultures.”

Since Bernard completed his FLC course, he decided to expand his knowledge in other areas as well. He has completed a number of other courses, including Component A, First Aid Course, Wheel Dozer and Track Dozer.

“I know that, as a result of the new skills I have learnt, I will be promoted and be able to build a better future for myself. My advice to anyone who gets the opportunity to study is that you must work hard and make use of it in order to succeed in life.”

Date:28 January 2015

By: Phathutshedzo Luvhengo

Read: 733