Introduction
The youth of the Northern Cape and Limpopo face significant socio-economic challenges, including high unemployment rates, limited educational opportunities, and inadequate access to essential support services.
Many young people lack the resources and guidance to transition into productive employment, engage in educational pursuits, or develop critical life skills. These challenges can lead to disillusionment, social exclusion, and reduced opportunities for self-empowerment.
About the Youth Centre Programme
The Youth Centre Programme established by SIOC-CDT offers a one-stop solution to address the needs of young people through a structured approach that includes career training, personal development, and community engagement activities.
Youth centres are strategically located in Tsantsabane, Olifantshoek, Deben, and Thabazimbi. By providing education, employment, and empowerment opportunities under one roof, these centres foster holistic development and support.
Some of the programme focal areas offered at the Youth Centres are:
- Prevention and Awareness programmes: Building knowledge on key issues affecting youth.
- Celebration of Commemorative Days: Promoting social cohesion and community engagement.
- Health and Reproductive programmes: Providing health education and services.
- Moral Regeneration programmes: Fostering ethical values and character development.
- Participatory Democracy programmes: Encouraging civic engagement and leadership.
- Youth Dialogues: Providing platforms for youth voices and community discussions.
- Information Technology: Digital literacy and access to technology resources.
- Inter-generational programmes: Bridging gaps between different age groups to promote shared learning.
- Life Skills Training: Equipping youth with essential skills for daily life.
- Skills Development and Entrepreneurial Training: Promoting self-employment and career readiness.
- Psychosocial Support Services: Providing emotional and mental health support.
- Active Lifestyle programmes: Encouraging physical activity and healthy living.
Some of the results
80 youth were trained at Deben Youth Centre in partnership with Agri- SETA, with additional support for driving and learner’s licences.
37 Nali-bali Implementers were recruited for 18 months with stipends in Thabazimbi, providing both employment and experiential learning.
All centres have engaged Groundbreakers, Mphitshis, and Volunteers to extend their community impact.
A survey of participants showed an 85% increase in self-confidence, attributed to newly acquired skills, mentoring support, and community engagement through the centres.