Young people share thoughts on youth disengagement in development programmes
As youth unemployment continues to rise in Alexandra, concerns grow over the lack of participation in development programmes designed to empower young people. Several young voices have shared their thoughts on this growing issue, offering insight into why many are disengaged.
Lovedelia Fache: Many young people in Alexandra only show interest when there are freebies involved. If it's an opportunity that requires effort, they don't show up. Young people should embrace opportunities and actively seek self-empowerment. They should stand up and take charge of their future. Look at yourself in the mirror and say, ‘This is me, and I want to do this.’ Never let anyone underestimate you. Attend workshops; you never know what the future may hold. Photo: Itumeleng Maloka
Xolile Nkambule: Young people want everything handed to them on a silver platter, but that is not how life works. Nowadays, we use social media a lot, but for the wrong reasons. Instead of searching for opportunities, scholarships, and learnerships, we use it for fun. Young people should do a self-introspection and then seek opportunities. They need to get up and work on themselves; there are opportunities out here, but you must put in the effort to find them. Photo: Itumeleng Maloka
Ntombikayise Nkambula: For some, it is because of a lack of interest, and it comes from the belief that development programmes do not translate to real opportunities. Many say, ‘What’s the point?’ because they feel they won’t gain anything. While information is available, it is often not useful enough to motivate participation. I attended a workshop today, but some of the opportunities I expected were not there. That makes it feel pointless. Young people sometimes dismiss programmes. Photo: Itumeleng Maloka
Lovedelia Fache: Many young people in Alexandra only show interest when there are freebies involved. If it’s an opportunity that requires effort, they don’t show up. Young people should embrace opportunities and actively seek self-empowerment. They should stand up and take charge of their future. Look at yourself in the mirror and say, ‘This is me, and I want to do this.’ Never let anyone underestimate you. Attend workshops; you never know what the future may hold. Photo: Itumeleng Maloka
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