Municipality dispels vigil expenditure rumours

THE eThekwini Municipality has debunked rumours that have been circulating on social media, about the matic results vigil costing ratepayers R6 million.

In a media statement, the municipality said the night vigil was hosted by eThekwini Municipality in partnership with numerous NGOs, who initiated this event.

According to the report, the vigil was held to provide moral support to matric students who were anxiously waiting for their matric results, as part of the City’s broader programme to support students both mentally and financially.

The event focused on providing psychological support, counselling, motivation, career guidance (bursary information and on the job training etc), and engagement with the 2016 matric learners prior to receiving their results. This was the second year the vigil was held.

In regards to the amount of money spent on the event, the municipality confirmed that the expenditure for this event was R750 000 which went towards logistics costs including venue hire, transport, marquee hire etc. and did not cost ratepayers R6 million as reported on social media platforms.

To reiterate the City’s commitment to youth empowerment, the 2016/17 budget has set aside R100 million for youth programmes. The municipality has also undertaken the Artisan Development Programme which would see the City facilitate the training of 10 000 youth as artisans over the next three years. The programme will cost R741 million and will train the youth in various trades.

In addition, a sum of R4,5 million has been set aside for the 2017 academic year by the municipality to assist students from impoverished backgrounds. Learners from disadvantaged backgrounds will also be able to benefit from the Mayoral Student Financial Relief Fund.

For enquiries about the Student Financial Relief Fund contact Puleng Monatisa on 031 311 3150 or email: puleng.monatisa@durban.gov.za.