Women working across South Africa’s logistics and transport sector have been given a new route into professional development and leadership with the launch of a fully funded CILT Level 5 International Diploma in Logistics and Transport.
The programme, launched by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport South Africa (CILTSA) in partnership with Commerce Edge and Alto Training is funded by the Transport Education and Training Authority (TETA).
The launch took place at the IMM Graduate School Conference Centre in Parktown and marks the beginning of a year-long development programme aimed specifically at women in logistics, transport, warehousing, operations and supply chain environments.
From qualification to workplace capability
The programme goes beyond classroom-based learning, combining formal education with workplace experience, mentorship and practical assignments. Participants will complete online contact learning, workplace experiential learning, logbooks, coaching and evidence-gathering activities as part of the qualification.
“It offers participants access to internationally recognised learning, practical workplace-based experience, mentorship support and a professional designation pathway through CILTSA,” says Catherine Larkin, CILTSA’s executive director.
Ten Gauteng-based candidates attended the launch in person, while additional candidates joined online from the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. Three mentors were also present, highlighting the importance of ongoing guidance alongside the formal qualification.
TETA representatives attended the launch, reinforcing the funder’s focus on skills development, transformation and creating greater opportunities for women within the sector.
Commerce Edge will deliver the learning components of the qualification, while Alto Training is responsible for project management, programme coordination and support with TETA processes.
CILTSA, Commerce Edge and Alto Training will work together to provide candidates with a structured development pathway that connects learning directly to workplace application.
Developing the next generation of leaders
The programme covers Management in Logistics and Transport, Supply Chain Management, Transport Operations and Warehousing.
For an industry facing ongoing skills and leadership challenges, the value of programmes such as this lies in building capability while creating a clearer professional pathway for women already working in the sector.
The combination of an internationally recognised qualification, workplace experience and mentoring is intended to give candidates skills they can apply immediately while preparing them for greater responsibility.
“The launch highlighted the value of collaboration between professional bodies, funders, training providers, employers and mentors in creating meaningful opportunities for women.
“As the candidates begin their learning journey, the programme stands as a significant investment in professional growth, industry transformation and the development of future leaders in logistics and transport,” concludes Larkin.
Editor’s comment: The logistics and transport sector cannot afford to leave talent on the sidelines. Developing women already working across the industry – and giving them the qualifications, workplace exposure and mentoring needed to progress – is not simply a transformation objective. It is a practical investment in the sector’s future leadership capacity. Brava to all involved!
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