MIDVAAL – The Midvaal Local Municipality’s mayor, Peter Teixeira, has highlighted the importance of not forgetting what he dubs the ‘forgotten generation’ – referring to men and women who are between the ages of 35-44.
This after Teixera’s office partnered with Afri Guard for a security guard training programme for this particular age group. The training programme is one of several efforts aimed specifically at addressing the unique needs of those who fall outside traditional youth development initiatives.
The initiative stems from the promise Teixeira made in his manifesto speech in 2021 and is in line with the mayoral undertaking of creating opportunities for all.
Teixeira committed to empowering the forgotten generation as they are often excluded from government interventions, scholarships and internships.
During his speech, Teixeira said: “ This is a group of men and women who can still be economically active, but do not have the education, skills or employment opportunities that the youth today is exposed to.”
“Do not get me wrong. Youth are also impacted by the inequality of our times. However, the ‘forgotten generation’ also happens to be parents to future generations. They have immense familial pressure and have been excluded from government interventions, scholarships and internships. Today, I wish to recognise and assure them that I see them, I hear them and that they too will be empowered through this administration.”
Teixeira stated that the impact of inequality and limited opportunities to the youth is acknowledged.
“Unemployment is a huge challenge in South Africa; however, we also understand that the challenge is not only the lack of jobs but also the gap between the skills people have and the skills employers need.”
Teixeira reiterates that through the initiative, they are not only addressing the issue of unemployment but also equipping the forgotten generation with relevant skills to thrive in today’s economy.
