SOUTH AFRICA: Youth graduate with skills for economic independence
Salesian Institute Youth Projects offers life skills training combined with vocational skills training
SOUTH AFRICA
(MissionNewswire) Salesian Institute Youth Projects, located in Cape Town, South Africa, has graduated 175 youth from its NEET (Not in Employment, Education, or Training) Employability Program, designed to equip youth with critical skills and opportunities for economic independence. These youth have gained SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) accredited certificates in different sectors such as wholesale and retail sales, business start-up, and solar installation.
The NEET Program is a dynamic vehicle for youth empowerment, serving youth aged 18-27 who are not taking part in employment, education or training. These youth face significant barriers to self-sufficiency and sustainable livelihoods. To address these needs, the institute offers life skills training combined with vocational skills training and project-based learning.
A Salesian explained, “This innovative framework not only reintroduces disengaged youth to education but also nurtures entrepreneurial thinking and provides exposure to real-world work environments. The program targets disadvantaged communities in the greater Cape Town area, fostering social transformation by equipping youth with skills that drive both individual and community-level economic growth.”
The program offers two specialized training streams. The New Venture Creation program is an accredited course that spans 12 months and culminates in a Further Education and Training Certificate. The curriculum provides entrepreneurial skills, business acumen and hands-on workplace experience, enabling youth to launch their own businesses or enter the job market with confidence.
The Solar Photovoltaic Installer/Mounter course recognizes the growing demand for skilled professionals in the renewable energy sector. This accredited course is offered as a six- or 12-month program. Participants are required to have finished at least grade 11. They gain both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise in installing and maintaining solar photovoltaic systems.
Father François Dufour, director, explained, “The program is about restoring dignity and hope. We believe in the resilience and potential of every young person who crosses our threshold. These graduates are now equipped with the skills needed to create opportunities, not only for themselves, but also for the whole community.”
Salesian Institute Youth Projects has been providing education, emotional support and skills development training for youth who are vulnerable or at risk in Cape Town since 1910. It has been instrumental in changing the lives of hundreds of youth who would otherwise not have been able to access the job market.
Poverty is extensive in South Africa with more than half the population and more than 63% of children living below the poverty line, according to UNICEF. A significant percentage of the population struggles to survive on less than $1 a day. The country is plagued by high crime rates and violence against women and girls, and it has been the hardest hit by the HIV/AIDS crisis in the world. There is an urgent need for education to help prevent the spread of the deadly virus and to help lift youth out of poverty.
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Sources:
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ANS – South Africa – 175 NEETs specialise in different job sectors
Salesian Institute Youth Projects
Salesian Institute Youth Projects Facebook
Salesian Missions – South Africa
UNICEF – South Africa
