The WorldSkills competition is an international platform that aims to showcase the value of skills and the need for skilled workers across various industries. Festo supported WorldSkills 2014 by hosting the Mechatronic Finals, the winners of which proceed to the National Finals in Cape Town. Winners of the worldwide National competitions in their respective countries will take part in the International Competition in Brazil in 2015.
Festo is more than just an innovation leader and global enterprise and the company also takes pride in being a learning organisation, which regards education as an investment in the future. “Being associated with WorldSkills is important to our company as this is representative of our commitment to education and skills upliftment,” explains business development manager Russell Schwulst. “We have been committed to WorldSkills for a number of years through supporting the Mechatronics and Mobile Robotics disciplines.”
(Left to right): General manager Festo Didactic South Africa Horst Weinert, Victor Hlaise, Xaccheus Seema, Tressure Mokgohloa and David Setlhake. Victor and Trevor were on the winning team from Tshwane North College.
WorldSkills is a key event where the importance of skilled workers is promoted. At the Mechatronic Finals, schoolchildren, trainees and students find out for themselves what skills a mechatronic engineer requires, as well as the day-to-day workings of such an engineer. “People learn to understand this career path and what makes people choose it. By informing and showcasing this discipline, we are playing a vital role in the lives and careers of potential engineers,” says Schwulst. “Education is the basis for a successful future and Festo will always take an active role in educating and training – the synergy between the concept of WorldSkills and this philosophy is what makes hosting part of this global competition so exciting.”
Festo Didactic, the training division of Festo, shares its competence and technical expertise with over 40 000 customers worldwide. For Festo it is abundantly clear that actively promoting technical education and training is essential for market success, innovation and sustainability. “Politicians have been dealing with issues including skills shortages and lack of interest in subjects such as mathematics, information technology, natural sciences and technology for a number of years. This is where Festo can make a significant contribution by promoting new talent,” concludes Schwulst. “Our association with a competition such as WorldSkills, where new talent is promoted and celebrated is testament to this and it is an honour to be able to provide continued support for such an important global event.”
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