Mo-Afrika invests in the future of the youth

It was a moment of joy and celebration when Mo-Afrika Ithlokomele hosted a graduation ceremony this past weekend.

Held at the organisation’s offices in Pimville Zone Three, the graduation ceremony was in honour of students who have completed various courses in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

Out of a class of 23 students, 15 have acquired National Certificates in ICT End User NQF level 3 through MICT SETA while the other 8 acquired IT Essential computer course certificates through CISCO Networking Academy.

These courses were offered by Mo-Afrika as part of the organisation’s community upliftment programme and they are accredited by the MICT SETA and CISCO International Networking Academy.

Organisation spokesperson Mbongiseni Mtshali said the beneficiaries of the programme are young people who come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Through the programme, unemployed youth who have passed Grade 12 are given a chance to study and enter the field of ICT.

“We are targeting young people who can’t afford to study for expensive ICT courses at university. Not only will the courses we offer help young people enter the job market but they have also unleashed the potential of those who were demoralised and depressed by their socio-economic conditions,” said Mtshali.

The certificates awarded to graduates will not only help them get employment but they are set to open more opportunities for further studying as well.  Mtshali strongly bellies that a candidate who has a Grade 12 certificate complemented by skills programme certificate like the ones offered at Mo-Africa is more likely to get employment that the one who only has a Grade 12 certificate.

The Networking Academy and the MICT SETA are playing a pivotal role in making sure that courses offered at Mo-Africa are of acceptable quality and high standard. They provide the organisation with the top of the range curriculum support, online examinations, superior simulation in the form of package tracer and even exam discount vouchers for high performing students.

Mtshali said, “ICT skills development remains a key priority within the South African employment context and requires focused investment on the part of employers and government.”

Enrolment for next year is open and all unemployed young people from Soweto and surrounding areas are invited to apply.
Space is limited and acceptance will depend on a first come first serve basis.

Besides ICT courses, the organisation does a lot of community work which include HIV and drug awareness campaigns and offers life skills training to young people from across Soweto.

For more information, the organisation can be contacted on info@moafrika.org.za or 011 933 4499.