The Vaal Youth Empowerment Week recently concluded at Kononia Bible Church, marking a significant milestone in the fight against youth unemployment. Held last week, the event gathered influential figures from business, government, and higher education to provide practical economic solutions for the region’s young people.
Founded by Empowa Worx CEO Simphiwe Masiza, the initiative focused on innovation and collaboration. A central partner in the programme was the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), which is currently celebrating its 60th anniversary. The university used the platform to showcase its Strategy 2033+ vision, which aims to produce graduates who are both employable and capable of starting their own businesses.
Professor Simphiwe Nelana, a Deputy Vice-Chancellor at VUT, addressed the
crowd on the importance of education in an age of artificial intelligence and digital disruption.
He argued that universities must evolve beyond traditional teaching to build
adaptability and entrepreneurship. He highlighted several key partnerships with
organisations like the Technology Innovation Agency and the Vaal Special
Economic Zone, which aim to connect students directly with economic
opportunities.
He also pointed to flagship initiatives such as the E-Skills Department and Ekasi Labs, which are focused on advancing digital literacy, artificial intelligence, and township innovation. Programmes in footwear manufacturing and additive manufacturing further demonstrate how academic learning can be translated into enterprise development and job creation.
Other speakers reinforced the central message of empowerment. Reverend Dan Motaung encouraged resilience and purpose, while Nomzamo Moalusi, Marketing and Communications Manager at Primedia Outdoor, emphasised the importance of combining qualifications with adaptability, communication skills, and critical thinking in an AI-influenced workplace.
From the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, Bishop Dulton Keith Adams urged the audience to recognise their own potential to drive change.
Additional contributions highlighted the importance of balancing technological advancement with human creativity and leadership.
Reflections from attendees underscored the impact of the programme.
Participant Lerato Mekgalo described the initiative as life-changing, noting that it restored hope and demonstrated the power of collective investment in youth development.
Fellow attendee Gopolang Dithako echoed this sentiment, describing the week as a movement of action and possibility, driven by young people eager to shape their future.