The Siyabhaka Academy: Growing SA’s bakers of tomorrow

In December 2023, 21 learners graduated from RCL FOODS’ Siyabhaka Academy, receiving NQF 2 and 3 qualifications. However, the skills they acquired during the program go beyond simple qualifications. The highly specialised syllabus aims to equip students with a balance of technical knowledge, practical hands-on skills and in-bakery experience – all to make graduates as employable as possible and set them up for a successful career.

Launched in 2019, the Siyabhaka Academy was created to help bridge the significant skill gap within the baking industry. This aligned with RCL FOODS’ purpose to empower young learners in high unemployment areas in the hope of bettering their futures.

Each Academy program runs over 18 months and consists of a comprehensive blend of theory and in-bakery training. What sets this program apart is the level of support learners receive. Every learner is paired with a dedicated technical advisor that mentors and guides them through their Academy journey.

To date, 64 learners have benefited from the life-changing opportunity to attend and qualify through the Siyabhaka academy. however, that number is about to climb with the intake of 15 new learners for the class of 2025. We wish you all the best of luck in this transformative phase of your lives and look forward to seeing you reap the rewards of your hard work in the future.