The Firefighting Reservist Programme of Stellenbosch Municipality has been lauded for being one that provides local youths with opportunities to develop valuable skills and experience.
The programme, run by Stellenbosch Fire Services, has successfully trained 22 reservists since its establishment in 2018.
It is the only fire service in the province to have an active reservist programme, which was founded to augment the municipality’s emergency services and equip youths with this skill.
Last week, Stellenbosch mayor Adv Gesie van Deventer celebrated with successful reservists who completed the Firefighter 1 (FF1) course, which includes rigorous and intense training, both in theory and practical implementation.
“We are truly fortunate in Stellenbosch to have a fire chief and council that are passionate about safety, and continually support Fire Services by acquiring new fire stations, vehicles, equipment and human resources,” Van Deventer said.
All five reservists – Aaliyah Abrahams, Suzaanne Pietersen, Matthew Faroa, Keandre Kok and Ricco Johannes – completed their training at the Cape Winelands District Municipality Academy last month (September).
Five more youths are currently in training and will graduate in December.
What’s more, three reservists have been permanently employed as firefighters this year.
Van Deventer further thanked Stellenbosch fire chief Wayne Smith for his commitment towards the programme and his department’s work in keeping properties safe and saving lives in the municipality.
Stellenbosch Fire Service invites all fit, healthy and willing young people to sign up for its reservist programme. Potential candidates must be aged 18 to 30, be physically and medically fit, preferably hold a Grade 12 qualification, and be a resident of the greater Stellenbosch municipal area.
- Interested persons wanting more information can send an email to Moenadia.Devries@stellenbosch.gov.za.
