Seriti Institute in Standerton operates on grassroots levels
Their agroecology training was provided to 39 beneficiaries, covering topics like sustainable food production, soil health, water management, business operations and marketing.
Standerton, much like other small towns in the country, faces significant challenges of poverty, inequality and unemployment.
This opinion was expressed by the Seriti Institute which has more than a decade of experience in community development.
The institute indicated that they have been working on social cohesion and community development initiatives.
They have partnered with Astral/Goldi since 2018 as the liaison service provider to renovate and improve the school’s infrastructure and Astral’s employee housing.
Despite the Covid-19 disruption, many low-income households received food relief in partnership with Ascendis Health, FOOD SA and Meal SA.
Seriti trained more than 38 people in early childhood development in 2021 to address the gap in supporting children aged 0 months to eight years.
Parents and caregivers received the necessary skills, tools and resources to understand their role in shaping a child’s life.
They also trained the community on establishing and maintaining household and community food gardens.
Their agroecology training was provided to 39 beneficiaries, covering topics like sustainable food production, soil health, water management, and business operations and marketing.
Seriti partnered with the National Youth Service in 2021 to introduce public employment programmes in Standerton, with 250 participants receiving training.
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Altogether 25 caregivers were registered for an NQF4 course at the Durban University of Technology, while 25 caregivers graduated from the Health and Welfare SETA Skills Programme.
The Social Employment Fund provided 500 participants with work opportunities as well.
This year, a community agri-hub was established at Draaihoek Goldi Farm 3 to showcase agroecology practices and enterprise development.
According to Seriti, the hub will be a demonstration site for agricultural activities, a seedling production facility and a training centre for agroecology and enterprise/cooperative management.
The goal is to establish a viable enterprise that improves food security, creates sustainable job opportunities, generates income and brings people together.
The institute has interacted with Lekwa’s Local Economic Development Unit to bring sustainable change and growth to the community.
The public sector, government, private sector and civil society are thus united for the benefit of the Standerton community.
Seriti’s offices are at 19A Kerk Street. If you would like to get involved in a partnership, email info@seriti.org.za
