Learners from Jakes Gerwel Technical High School visited the Southern Ropes manufacturing facility to gain firsthand insight into synthetic rope manufacturing, technical careers and South African industry.
On 17 September 2026, Southern Ropes had the privilege of welcoming a group of learners from Jakes Gerwel Technical High School in Bonnievale to our manufacturing facility. The visit formed part of our commitment to supporting skills development, technical education and the future of South African manufacturing.
Southern Ropes manufactures high-performance synthetic ropes and lifting solutions for marine, offshore, industrial, lifting and recovery applications in South Africa and internationally.
Welcoming Future Industry Professionals
The visit gave learners a firsthand look at the world of synthetic rope manufacturing, allowing them to experience the processes, technology, craftsmanship and expertise involved in producing high-performance ropes and lifting solutions. Throughout the visit, learners were introduced to various rope constructions and materials and learned how these products are used across a diverse range of industries.
For many of the learners, this was an opportunity to see manufacturing in action and gain a better understanding of the technical skills, innovation and teamwork required to produce quality products.
Exploring the World of Synthetic Rope Manufacturing
At Southern Ropes, we believe that practical exposure to industry is an important part of education. By opening our doors to schools and educational institutions, we aim to help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.
During the tour, learners interacted with members of our team, explored different rope products and gained insight into the manufacturing processes that transform raw materials into solutions used in marine, offshore, lifting, industrial and recovery applications around the world.
Why Skills Development Matters
South African manufacturing depends on skilled people, practical experience and a willingness to innovate. Providing opportunities for young people to engage with industry helps broaden horizons, spark curiosity and introduce learners to career paths they may not have previously considered.
Today's learners will become the artisans, technicians, engineers and industry professionals who help shape South Africa's future manufacturing sector.
“It was encouraging to see the learners actively engaging with our team, asking questions, exploring different rope products and showing a genuine interest in the manufacturing process. These experiences help young people discover opportunities within industry and inspire future career aspirations.”
— Marcus Twine, Managing Director, Southern Ropes
Building South Africa's Future Workforce
As a proudly South African manufacturer, Southern Ropes recognises the importance of investing in future talent. Visits such as these not only provide valuable educational experiences but also highlight the exciting opportunities that exist within local manufacturing.
We are passionate about sharing knowledge, promoting technical education and helping learners gain exposure to the industries that contribute to South Africa's economic growth and development.
Thank You for Visiting
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the learners and educators from Jakes Gerwel Technical High School for spending the morning with us, as well as to the Southern Ropes team members who generously shared their knowledge and expertise. The learners were also given rope samples to take home, enabling them to continue practising their knot-tying skills beyond the visit.
We wish these learners every success in their educational journeys and look forward to seeing where their future careers take them. Southern Ropes remains committed to supporting education, skills development and the next generation of South African manufacturing professionals.
Southern Ropes welcomes opportunities to engage with schools, training institutions and industry partners who share our commitment to skills development and the future of South African manufacturing.
Explore Southern Ropes
- Products: See examples of advanced manufacturing in Super-12 HMPE and LiftPro Endless Round Slings
- Industries: Explore the industries Southern Ropes serves
- Technical resources: Browse approved product data sheets
- Careers: View career opportunities at Southern Ropes
