NEWS

Today 48 unemployed graduates begin an 18-month journey to becoming qualified Facilities Managers through a landmark national learnership funded by Services SETA, implemented by MSC Education Holdings, and endorsed by SAFMA. 

The Facilities Management (FM) industry in South Africa is taking a historic step forward with the official start of Project WON Hundred, a groundbreaking 18-month learnership designed to professionalise the sector and empower unemployed graduates with meaningful career opportunities. 

Funded by the Services SETA, delivered by MSC Education Holdings, and endorsed by the South African Facilities Management Association (SAFMA), the initiative welcomes 48 future FM specialists who successfully made the cut following a rigorous national selection process. 

Over the next 18 months, learners will complete the Occupational Certificate: Facilities Manager (NQF Level 6) while gaining hands-on workplace experience through partnerships with leading companies across Gauteng and Cape Town. These workplaces, supported by dedicated mentors, will provide the platform for real-world training and career development. 

A Massive Stride for Facilities Management in South Africa 

Facilities Management has long been identified as a critical yet underdeveloped profession in South Africa. By aligning SETA funding, accredited training, SAFMA endorsement, and industry collaboration, Project WON Hundred addresses both youth unemployment and the skills shortage in FM — paving the way for sustainable growth and professional excellence in the sector. 

“This is not only an investment in 48 individuals — it is an investment in South Africa’s infrastructure, industries, and communities,” said Charine van der Walt Manager: Innovation & Development Hub of MSC Education Holdings. “We are proud to lead the implementation of Project WON Hundred and to collaborate with Services SETA, SAFMA, and host companies to engineer the FM heroes of tomorrow.” 

Human Impact at the Core 

For the 48 selected candidates — many of whom already hold qualifications but have struggled to find employment — the programme represents a life-changing opportunity. The ripple effects of the learnership extend beyond the individual, positively impacting families, communities, and industries that rely on skilled facilities management to operate effectively. 

Voices of Collaboration 

SAFMA is proud to have played a role in supporting the launch of the Facilities Management Learnership Programme and this initiative marks a significant step forward in professionalising the FM sector and creating meaningful career pathways. 

“This learnership programme is a powerful example of what can be achieved when industry, education, and opportunity come together. SAFMA is honoured to support initiatives that uplift future FM professionals and build a stronger, more inclusive sector.” – Marianne Botes, General Manager: SAFMA. 

Gratitude and Vision 

MSC Education Holdings expressed its appreciation to the hosting companies (Fullserve Services, Hillpet Construction, Property Practitioners Regulartory Authority (PPRA), Tefla, Tshogofentse Engineering & Facilities, Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and TR Infinity) and mentors who will guide learners through their work-integrated learning. Their commitment ensures that Project WON Hundred delivers not just academic outcomes but real-world professional growth. 

As South Africa continues to tackle unemployment and skills shortages, Project WON Hundred stands as a beacon of collaboration, transformation, and progress. The programme is a massive stride for the FM sector — and a powerful reminder that when industries, funders, and educators unite, the future can be engineered for success. 

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