Youth enabled to strive for excellence in Craigieburn, Illovu
Access to digital tools, skills development programmes, entrepreneurship support, and career pathways will be provided at Human Capital Centres of Excellence.
With the youth of today facing multiples barriers to education, employment and digital inclusion, eThekwini Municipality has been able to provide them with renewed hope and more opportunities to overcome this.
Two Human Capital Centres of Excellence were launched and unveiled in Craigieburn and Illovu by eThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba on June 3.
These centres stand as a lifeline to a better future for the local youth, and mark the beginning of a new chapter for communities long affected by unemployment, poverty and limited access to opportunities.
Xaba said the facilities will assist in equipping young people with digital skills and tools needed to participate effectively in an increasingly technology-driven world.
“At a time when many families are facing economic challenges, the centres will provide a valuable service by offering free access to technology and the internet within the community, reducing the need for residents to travel long distances to access such resources,” he added.
As part of a growing network of 34 centres of excellence, the facilities provide access to digital tools, skills development programmes, entrepreneurship support, and career pathways.
They feature modern computer labs, free high-speed Wi-Fi and access to digital platforms.
Anele Mgobhozi, one of the matric pupils from Umkomaas Secondary School said the centre has definitely restored a sense of hope and will greatly assist learners applying to universities.
“Access to free internet and digital equipment will enable us to complete applications, conduct research and access important educational resources more efficiently,” she said.
“For a long time, it felt like the community, especially young people, was being left behind. This centre changes that. It gives us a space to learn new skills, access real opportunities, and finally move forward. For the first time, I feel like we can build a future and begin to transform the socio-economic reality of our community.”
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