Youth unemployment is a glaring issue in South Africa, with the latest figures showing that over 46% of people aged 15 to 34 are without work.

In response to this, the Community Youth Development Agency, in partnership with the Synergistic Covenant Network NPO from Davidsonville, invited young people from the community to talk business and opportunities that are available for them at Synergistic.

The agency is a youth-led initiative in Matholesville that fights against unemployment, inequality and poverty in the area.

Synergistic is a youth skills centre that offers free accredited courses, services and training to the community. They offer free services like basic computer training, welding, advice and referral, agriculture, project management, and entrepreneurship.

The event held on October 1 at Matholesville’s main entrance was also attended by members of the National Youth Development Agency, who gave business guidance and talks to those interested in that sector.

According to Siyabonga James, co-ordinator of the agency, it was about presenting young people from the community with opportunities available at Synergistic and guiding those who are interested in business.

“There are many unemployed young people, and that is what we are trying to curb as an organisation since we started in 2019. Hopefully, they embrace these opportunities because unemployment contributes to a lot of negative things in the community,” he said.

The day ended with the handing out of flyers and registrations for Synergistic. For more information on Synergistic Covenant Network, call 064 329 1670 or send an email to info@synergistic.org.za.