Mpumalanga Department of Social Development implements new initiatives

The Mpumalanga Department of Social Development (DSD) joined the global community in commemorating World Population Day on Saturday, July 11. It marked the occasion by launching digital skills programmes aimed at equipping young people with the technological literacy needed to thrive in the modern world.

This year, World Population Day was observed under the theme ‘Realising the hopes and aspirations of young people – today and for the future’. The day highlighted the importance of placing young people’s needs and aspirations at the centre of policy discussions and development agendas.

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With more than 60% of Mpumalanga’s population under the age of 35, young people play a vital role in shaping the province’s future.
The MEC for social development, Nompumelelo Hlophe, said investing in the well-being of young people is essential to building a thriving Mpumalanga.
“A prosperous future depends on their health, education, employment, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion,” she said.

The department currently supports 48 youth development centres across the province. These offer a variety of services, including mentorship programmes that encourage meaningful participation in society, digital skills training to equip young people with digital competencies, and make effective use of digital media, as well as job preparation and entrepreneurship programmes designed to prepare them for the world of work and support their business ambitions.

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Hlophe said the DSD implemented behavioural change initiatives such as the You Only Live Once campaign, Men Championing Change, and Traditional Leaders Programmes. These initiatives are aimed at helping young people make informed decisions and navigate life’s challenges.

She added that the department’s focus on youth aligns with Objective 2 of the Medium-Term Development Plan, which identifies women, young people, and persons with disabilities as priority groups that require greater support to help build a more prosperous future for South Africa.