The programme is an innovative response to the massive problem of an estimated one million unemployed young people in Johannesburg.
Scheduled to register its first intake of youth from June 1, the programme will begin with screening, assessment and advisory services for all candidates.
“The assessments will identify the opportunities available for individual youngsters based on their aptitudes and capabilities. Candidates will be taught foundation literacy, numeracy and digital literacy to raise their earning potential.
“Tomorrow must be better than today and for those who make up the vast ranks of the unemployed youth. The kind of transformative innovation represented by Vulindlel’eJozi is how we make sure that becomes a reality.” said Tau.
MAYOR ROLLS OUT MOBILITY FOR TERTIARY EDUCATION LADDER
The Mayor said the City would roll out online university education in partnership with international institutions through the City’s public libraries.
Tau said the Census 2011 Johannesburg statistics show the challenge in education access for residents. The stats noted that 13.2% of Joburg residents across all age groups have a post-high school education and only 5.8% of that population have a bachelor degree or higher.
“The Massive Open Online Varsity, or MOOV, will provide the kind of learning gateway that is making all the difference across Africa.” said Tau.
The MOOV programme has 40 youth enrolled and will expand to connect hundreds of students citywide with recognised online courses.
Tau also acknowledged the importance of broadband network as a public asset. Over the coming months, the City will accelerate the rollout of free public Wi-Fi hotspots and will deploy 3Â 000 young people to provide digital literacy training.
