Empowering South African Youth: Salesian Institute Youth Projects Leads the Way
CAPE TOWN, November 21, 2023 — The Salesian Institute Youth Projects in Cape Town, South Africa, is making significant strides in empowering young people between the ages of 18 and 26 who are not employed, engaged in education, or receiving training. The institute is tackling this issue through its NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) program, focusing on providing life skills, vocational training, and exposure to real workplace experiences.
The NEETs program is a year-long initiative that comprises three learning modules. The first module covers essential life skills, language, and math fundamentals. The second involves an internship in social enterprises, while the third exposes participants to workplace learning within partner organizations, offering practical experience in their chosen fields.
Gabriel Hamuy, the NEETs youth employability program manager, emphasized the institute’s goal to partner with industry players willing to provide job shadowing opportunities and potential future employment for the students. Local businesses in Cape Town are urged to collaborate in offering these young individuals a pathway to a fulfilling career.
Currently, 86 students are engaged in the “New Venture Creation and Wholesale and Retail Curriculum” in 2023. This curriculum focuses on hydroponics, incorporating a large-scale community project involving workshops, production, and distribution of home hydroponics kits, as well as the commercialization of produce.
The Salesian Institute Youth Projects has been dedicated to assisting homeless, unemployed, and impoverished youth in Cape Town since 1910. The Salesians provide shelter, education, and workforce development services, addressing the basic needs of the youth and helping break the cycle of poverty.
South Africa faces extensive poverty, with over half the population and more than 63% of children living below the poverty line. The country struggles with high crime rates, violence against women and girls, and the world’s most severe HIV/AIDS crisis. Education is crucial to prevent the spread of the virus and uplift youth from poverty.
The Salesian Institute Youth Projects remains committed to empowering South African youth, offering them the skills and opportunities needed for a brighter future.
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