In a bid to help curb unemployment in the country, the programme My Future, My Career Youth Development was launched yet again this year on 10 May.
The programme focuses on youth enablement and implementation through the creation of innovative educational film content.
The launch which was held at The Pivot in Montecasino was attended by members of the media, students of the programme, government and sponsors. The collective future of the youth was addressed while youth unemployment and the negative impact it has on society took centre stage.
Through a series of 14 in-depth maths and science educational films, the programme provides valuable information and much-needed guidance on more than 115 possible career options. These films are screened at Ster-Kinekor theatres, reaching thousands of grade 9 to 12 children from disadvantaged communities across the country.
Dubbed the Theatres of Learning, children gain valuable insight into the academic requirements and personal effort that will be needed to succeed.
To date, the programme has reached over 200 000 school children nationwide, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions and inspiring them to achieve their career aspirations.
According to Kumba Iron Ore’s executive head of public affairs, Yvonne Mfolo, they were pleased to partner with Primestars Marketing in the national youth career development programme which helps deliver educational and entrepreneurial empowerment to secondary school children.
“We believe this will go a long way in ensuring that the youth – who are the leaders of tomorrow – have a shot at a better, brighter future,” Mfolo said.
With a considerable level of support from the Department of Basic Education, The Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA), private and public sectors and the academic fraternity, all agreed that career education plays a vital role in the development of young leaders. It also plays an important role in alleviating the shortage of skills, unemployment and poverty.
“The programme helps encourage children to proactively explore and take full advantage of the career opportunities that exist for them, helping them to find their dream jobs where they can spend their life doing something they are passionate about and which contributes to the world,” said Martin Sweet, managing director at Primestars Marketing.
The programme was launched in cinemas on 7 May and will run at various Ster-Kinekor cinemas across the country on Sunday mornings, with two learning episodes being aired per screening until 11 June.
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