Heidelberg treatment centre celebrates youth agricultural skills graduates
Young people have graduated from an agricultural and entrepreneurship programme at the Mabutho Hlatshwayo Treatment Centre outside Heidelberg, gaining skills aimed at tackling unemployment and food insecurity.
Young people have completed an agricultural and entrepreneurship skills training programme to promote employment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods.
The graduation ceremony took place on October 16 at the Mabutho Hlatshwayo Treatment Centre, situated at Plot 70 on the R23 Standerton/Balfour Road, outside Heidelberg.
Gauteng MEC for Social Development Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko officiated at the ceremony, accompanied by Speaker of Council Phindi Mpemvu, MMC for Corporate Services Mapule Motsepe and MMC for Local Economic Development and Planning Themba Motsepe.
The Gauteng Department of Social Development implemented the programme in partnership with the Action Development Agency.
It equipped young people from care centres, treatment centres and surrounding communities with accredited training in plant production, new venture creation and tractor driving.
The training aims to equip beneficiaries with practical skills to improve their employment prospects, establish businesses and contribute to local food production.
During the visit, the delegation officially unveiled a borehole donated by ADA to support sustainable agricultural production at the centre.
The officials also toured the centre’s vegetable garden. The initiative highlights the role of agricultural training and entrepreneurship in addressing youth unemployment, poverty and food insecurity while helping young people develop skills to build sustainable livelihoods.
