On 31 July, Kolos Cement Ltd celebrated the graduation of 20 new participants from its École des Maçons during a certificate award ceremony held at Royal Green. This latest graduating class builds on a programme that has already provided free training to more than 400 beneficiaries since its launch in 2013.
Delivered through the Bâtir Agir Foundation in partnership with the Mauritius Institute of Training and Development (MITD), the École des Maçons was established to help address one of the construction sector's key challenges: developing a skilled workforce equipped to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
This year, 20 participants, divided into two cohorts, successfully completed the 130 hour certified training programme, which combines 70% practical training with 30% theoretical instruction. The curriculum covers essential masonry skills, including site safety, setting out and levelling, block laying, mortar preparation, rendering, tiling, reinforced concrete fundamentals and formwork techniques.
Beyond technical knowledge, the programme supports individuals looking to enter the construction industry, broaden their expertise or pursue a new career path by equipping them with practical, industry recognised skills.
"The École des Maçons is not an initiative alongside our business. It is the natural extension of what we do and of our commitment to the long-term development of Mauritius' construction sector. Since 2013, more than 400 people have benefited from this programme, free of charge. We are proud to continue investing in the skills, professionalism and future of the men and women who will build the Mauritius of tomorrow," said Sean André, Head of Sales & Marketing at Kolos Cement Ltd.
The Mauritius Institute of Training and Development (MITD) also recognises the programme as an important contribution to the construction sector. According to Jay Tanapakion, Training Centre Manager at MITD, initiatives such as the École des Maçons play a key role in developing Mauritian talent and could be expanded through additional specialised training modules to meet the industry's future needs.
The 2026 edition also marks the retirement of Jean Sylvain Ramen, the programme's first and only trainer since its inception in 2013. Over the last thirteen years, he has trained more than 400 aspiring masonry professionals, many of whom have gone on to build successful careers in Mauritius and abroad.
Through the École des Maçons, Kolos Cement continues to invest in people, strengthen professional skills and contribute to the long-term development of Mauritius' construction industry, one generation of builders at a time.
