The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has kicked off a two-day youth engagement program at the KaMaqhekeza township in the Nkomazi Local Municipality, in Mpumalanga.
The program, which will run from Thursday to Friday, started this morning with a seminar at the Ehlanzeni TVET College, under the banner of "Vuk Talks" which is an extension of the Vukuzenzele newspaper.
During this session, themed “A decade of the Artisan”, students will engage with professionals and practicing artisans, learn about economic and entrepreneurial opportunities as well as funding options available in different sectors, including the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).
The event takes place at an opportune time, a few days before the 2023 Youth Month, said Michael Currin, GCIS Acting Director-General.
“Government understands the challenges faced by the youth. We are listening and employing all possible means to ensure that even in the face of the shrinking job market, young people are empowered to do something to support themselves and their families.
“We aim to build a network of young people who are driving change in their communities,” he said.
The program will conclude on Friday with a Government Exhibition Day, where more than 20 government departments and entities will showcase their products and services.
They will also allow members of the public easy access to government information and service offerings to better their lives.
Service offerings include those of Home Affairs, Unemployment Insurance Fund, South African Social Security Agency, Health, National Youth Development Agency, Legal Aid South Africa, Human Settlements and Retail Savings Bonds.
The GCIS hosts these exhibitions quarterly, covering different provinces as a way of ensuring that citizens have access to government information and services in an integrated manner.
"Like many communities in South Africa, Ka Maqhekeza has a high youth unemployment rate, and as we approach Youth Month, we want to ensure that we leave no one behind and that information and services reach the people where they are.
“Therefore, we call upon young people at Ka Maqhekeza and surrounding areas to embrace this opportunity,” Acting DG Currin said. – SAnews.gov.za
