CRADOCK NEWS - You can ask the Grade 11 economics class of Cradock High School anything about the role of the automotive sector in the South African economy nowadays.
The class had an educational outing to the Volkswagen (VW) manufacturing plant in Uitenhage recently to enhance their understanding of key economic concepts such as production, labour, capital investment, industrialisation, and the role of multinational companies in the South African economy.
The learners were welcomed by the VW staff and given an introductory briefing about the company's history and its operations in South Africa.
The guide explained how Volkswagen South Africa is one of the country's largest employers and exporters in the automotive sector.
On a guided tour of the factory floor, the learners observed the different stages of vehicle production, from the assembly of parts to the final inspection.
They saw how advanced robotics is used alongside human labour, integrating capital and labour in production.
They also learned about the company's investment in skills development and training through their apprenticeship programmes, which help address unemployment and provide technical skills to young South Africans.
Insight gained
The excursion gave the CHS learners a deeper understanding of production factors and how they are applied in the manufacturing process, and they learned how important technology and innovation are in maintaining global competitiveness.
After being made aware of how the automotive sector contributes to GDP, employment, and export revenue, the learners held discussions on the importance of foreign direct investment (FDI) in boosting the South African economy.
The visit was an enriching experience that allowed learners to connect economic theories with real-world practices.
It highlighted the significance of the manufacturing sector in economic development and gave them valuable insight into the functioning of a global company operating in South Africa.
CHS is grateful to the VW team for organising such an informative and inspiring trip.
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