People Against Poverty and Unemployment (Papu) continue to empower the community through their programme.
The organisation operates as a learning and development centre in Westbury, aimed at equipping young people with skills through different courses.
Since it’s inception last year, the number of enrolled students has doubled.
Papu founder and centre manager, Dawn Josephs, said 137 students enrolled for different courses within her organisation since 10 January. Papu is in partnership with 21st Century Skills and Mastersfield.
“One of our partners provided us with the use of the entire premises, although we pay a rental fee. The partnership extends further in terms of the courses they provide such as science and technology, mathematics and adult education. The partnership has extended strategically and the aim is to develop and impact this community,” said Josephs.
She added the organisation needs funding for their programme, in order to provide bursaries and learnerships.
Members who come from rehab centres, over the age of 30 are highly qualified but because of their past drug use, they struggle to access the job market. Papu also provides social services.
They need companies which can provide groceries in order to hand out to learners and their families. They assist members from Slovo Park and Kathrada Park, which are both informal settlements.
“The poverty issues are huge in these areas. We would appreciate any donations from people, which we will share with the community,” said Josephs.
Papu student, Cheslin van der Heever enrolled in the programme in order to get a qualification and so far it has been a good experience. He has learnt how to use Microsoft Word, computer skills and software.
“I’m glad I can gain skills which I can use in the future and improve my standard of living. I was inspired by my dreams to further my studies,” said Van der Heever.
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