ALBERTON – The youth of South Africa came out with a loud voice and gave the government a clear message in the elections last month. This message was that the youth of South Africa and specifically the youth of Ekurhuleni need immediate solutions to their problems.
As part of the commitment by Ekurhuleni to address these problems and due to the success of last year’s inaugural Career Expo, Ekurhuleni will host its second annual Ekurhuleni Career Expo and Job Summit from June 9 to 12.
This does not just show the commitment from the municipality to address youth employment but also to unlock opportunities for the youth of Ekurhuleni. The focus during this youth month is about more than just jobs, but provide young people with supports and opportunities to make a successful transition to adulthood.
There is a need for a positive youth development approach to help youth acquire the knowledge and skills they need to become healthy and productive adults. Through youth development initiatives such as the Career Expo and Ekurhuleni youth week we can build on young people’s strengths and recognise their unique contributions to our city.
As a community we need a fresh approach to youth development. Implementing the youth development plan requires preparation of the organisations in our community, adults, and youth. Policy and practice must be reviewed to ensure that we collectively support the philosophy of youth development and empowerment.
If there are any barriers, they need to be revised. We must also have a collective paradigm shift on the youth of our city. Adults must examine their views of young people and work to see them as “resources” rather than “problems to be fixed.”
The youth are the future and the leaders of tomorrow, in both business and government. In this regard I encourage all young people to prepare themselves so that they are able to fully participate in the opportunities provided to them.
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