Vuka Development Centre empowers Soweto youth with job-ready skills

The Gauteng Department of Social Development (DSD) has officially launched the Vuka Development Centre (VDC), a programme designed to holistically and sustainably empower youth through skills development.

The new facility was launched by MEC Faith Mazibuko in Rockville, Soweto, on June 19. It aims to address poverty and unemployment by bridging the gap between training and employment opportunities.

The centre operates from two locations.

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The Chiawelo facility focuses on soft skills such as call centre training, computer literacy, life skills, and business management. Meanwhile, the recently launched Rockville branch offers technical training in bricklaying, tiling, and plumbing.

According to VDC founder, Lerato Bester, the centre also has an advice and referral unit that assists graduates and community members in seeking job opportunities.

“We allow community members and students to access advice, referrals, and use available resources for job searching, printouts, and more,” said Bester.

“We group them and register companies for them. Others take part in construction projects to gain work experience.”

Thulisile Ngwenya (36), a computer end-user graduate from White City, said she joined the programme in February after hearing about the opportunity from her local councillor.

“The course is 100% free, and I had a great experience. I have grown personally, and with my certificate, I hope to grow professionally too. I’m very grateful to DSD and VDC for the opportunity,” she said.

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Mosa Khomo (23) from Mapetla, who is currently studying plumbing, said he enjoys the programme and believes that acquiring practical skills is essential.

“I think it’s necessary to have these skills in general, not just for those who want to work in the field,” he said.

“I am a shy person, but studying at VDC and interacting with different personalities has helped me open up. Once I complete plumbing, I hope to study bricklaying next.”

Mazibuko delivered the keynote address and later toured the facility to see the students’ work in action.

She praised the youth empowerment initiative, calling it a shining example of how skills development can transform lives.

“It is encouraging to see young people gaining practical expertise in fields such as plumbing and bricklaying. This not only creates economic opportunities but also builds confidence and independence,” said Mazibuko.

She added that government remains committed to supporting such programmes that equip the youth with tools to create sustainable livelihoods.

“Skills training is key to fighting unemployment, poverty, and restoring dignity in our communities.”