Companies operating within the industrial sector in Mozambique are now able to join the Beluluane JOBA Internship Programme in partnership with the Industrial Association of Mozambique (AIMO). Beluluane JOBA and AIMO signed a memorandum of agreement to offer participation in the practical internship programme to its large network of members. The trade association has been in existence for more than 30 years and represents more than 300 industrial entities (mining, salt production, cotton, metallurgy, chemicals, rubber, food and utensils).

According to Beluluane Chairman Adrian Frey this partnership will connect industrial companies with young talent. “There is a dire need for job creation especially during a time when the industrial sector is facing extreme difficulties,” he said. “We would like to see many more young people within paid positions by the end of this year.”

The internship programme was established in 2018 and has already seen 500 young Mozambicans successfully enter the workplace. It is administered by Beluluane Industrial Park and funded by the UK Aid. Young graduates are matched and placed within companies for 6 months, during which they get on-the-job training whilst earning a basic salary paid by the internship programme.

Companies may participate by signing an agreement with Beluluane JOBA in which they commit to the safety and productive learning environment to young graduates. They are expected to provide a learning plan and ongoing mentorship to participants while Beluluane JOBA is responsible for work-readiness training prior to their internships. This includes work ethics, communication, basic functional English, first aid, and health and safety skills.

AIMO President Rogério Samo Gudo said that the partnership with Beluluane JOBA will make an important contribution towards industry in Mozambique. Earlier this year, he called for a national fund to leverage the struggling industrial sector and has voiced his concern over the risk in job losses due to insufficient growth and the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. “This is an excellent opportunity and example of how industry is coming together in big and small ways,” he said. “We are inviting our members to join in this great programme and to show their commitment to developing a young and resilient industrial workforce”.

For more information, contact Ashleigh Tsuro at joba@beluluane.co.mz