Northern KZN youth empowered through upskilling initiative

Some 96 graduates are ready for the working world, having enrolled in the Vuma and eSicabazini Youth Development programme organised by the Department of Social Development.

The successful candidates attended a graduation ceremony held at Esicabazini Youth Development Academy in uMhlabuyalingana last Friday.

This was attended by government representatives and Inkosi Mabhudu Tembe, among others.

Fifty-two male and 44 female students were trained in hospitality management, plumbing, and construction, as well as basic computer skills training, which was conducted by uMfolozi TVET College.

As part of the government’s efforts to address GBV on the south coast, 40 students from uMzumbe were recruited following the brutal murder of more than five women in uMthwalume.

The six-month programme included a vaccination drive and the acquisition of driver’s licences.

The department also partnered with the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) to conduct business management training.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza said the provincial government didn’t believe in rhetoric, but was focused on impactful programmes aimed at bettering the lives of the youth.

‘Our department has established partnerships with the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, KZN Wildlife, Department of Health, NYDA, Saps, and the private sector for the provision of employment opportunities to students who have graduated from the academies,’ she said.

‘We established these partnerships with a clear understanding that, although graduates were encouraged to start their businesses, there were those who preferred to be employed.’

Khoza said the graduates had an opportunity to take various life skills and personal development programmes such as self-awareness, anger and conflict management, interpersonal relationship, goal setting, and substance abuse education.

Inkosi Tembe applauded the department for leading such a successful initiative.

‘We pride ourselves in hosting this graduation as the Tembe clan. We know the skills these youngsters have acquired will go a long way in changing their lives.

We wish these young people good luck and prosperity in life as they leave the academies,’ Tembe said.

NYDA board member Thulisa Ndlela said they were happy to be part of the graduation ceremony, and that government needed to ensure it used companies owned by young people.

‘Those who will open businesses need to be fully supported by all government departments,’ he said.

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