The Top of the Class training program (The Trade Chain of the South African Export Industry) is aimed at and presented to previously disadvantaged individuals working in the fresh fruit industry. The Fresh Produce Exporters Forum (FPEF) compiled a set of nine trade chain manuals that covers the process flow of fruit through the value chain. Programmes are facilitated on behalf of the FPEF.
The areas covered include production; picking, packing and packaging; cold stores, depots and terminals; containerised shipping; conventional shipping; consumer demand; quality management; exporter activities and ICT. The students are continuously evaluated on the content of the material and they will also be required to complete a feasibility study, case study and a multiple choice exam at the end of the program in November. The training consists of classroom sessions as well as visits to the relevant areas of discussion.
Programme content:
Production
Picking, packing and packaging
Cold stores, terminals and depots
Containerised shipping
Conventional shipping
Consumer demand
Transport, forwarding, IT, and research
Quality management
Exporter activities
Top of the Class group winners' visit to Sainsbury's in the UK
Sainsbury's Top of the Class groups' winning posters depicting the fruit supply chain
