@ The Heart of the Vaal – Is Artisan Electrician Makorinte

When Makorinte Mshukuma joined the Department of Infrastructure Development (DID) as a Handyman at the Vaal Maintenance Hub in 2017, he was determined to grow his career. At the time, he held an N6 qualification in Electrical Engineering and needed 24 months of practical experience to earn his Diploma. Makorinte shared his inspiring journey on becoming an Artisan Electrician with Infrastructure News.

?According to Makorinte, “When I started in the Department as a Handyman, my duties involved assisting the Artisan Electrician by carrying tools and cleaning up after the completion of tasks. But I had bigger plans and seized every opportunity to learn more about their responsibilities and worked closely with the Artisan Electrician. This hands-on experience helped me gain a deeper understanding of the role. I eventually became confident enough to perform the tasks without needing the Artisan's assistance.”

?Makorinte's ambition and determination did not go unnoticed - he was promoted to Artisan Electrician in 2021. He firmly believes that stepping up and taking on electrical tasks before his promotion was significant in shaping his career path. He reflected, “The Department did not only provide me with an entry job but also the resources and opportunities to grow and succeed. Today, I have a Trade Certificate that qualifies me as an Artisan. I obtained my Diploma and advanced from Level 3 to Level 5 due to the experience and support I received from the DID.” His duties now include fault-finding on low-voltage installations, inspecting and testing distribution boxes, tracing faults in sockets and lights, and conducting inspections in plant rooms and on generators.

Currently, Makorinte is working toward obtaining his Three-phase Wireman's License, “I am preparing for my exams. Once I pass, I will officially be registered with the Authority to conduct inspections and tests. I hope to grow further, obtain my Wireman’s License and eventually become an Electrical Control Works Inspector.”

He credits his success to the support of Senior Artisans within the Department, “I want to give a special thanks to my Chief Artisan, Mr. Mabaxa, and Chief Work Inspector, Lebogang Lediga. They motivated me from the start and played a huge role in my success. I hope to empower others the same way they empowered me. I also want our Hub to gain the recognition it deserves. The Vaal Dam Maintenance Hub may be small, but it has a big heart.”

?Makorinte hopes his story will serve as a call to action for the National Youth Service (NYS) learners and employees in Level 3 positions. He said, “I hope my story inspires Team DID, especially those in Level 3 or the NYS Programme. I want to remind everyone that growth is possible with the right mindset and effort. Apply yourself, and you will see the results of your hard work. Do not wait for anyone to push you, otherwise, you will remain in the same position for years. The NYS Programme offers a two-year window of opportunity. Use that time wisely, aim high and work hard to achieve similar goals and milestones.” Makorinte urged Team DID to play our part in delivering the Department’s mandate. “Let us work together to make DID great again and take pride in the work that we do!”