KNYSNA NEWS – In a bid to facilitate and support the growth and development of local youth, Knysna Municipality has collaborated with the Hands & Heart Skills Development and iThemba programmes.
According to a municipal press release, these initiatives aim to provide young men and women with tools and skills to help them succeed in the job market and life.
The collaboration is facilitated by the municipality's Youth Desk and the Social Development section.
"The Hands & Heart Skills Development programme is an excellent opportunity for young men who are eager to learn and create with their hands," the municipal communications team said. "Through the programme, participants receive hands-on training and tools to help them reach their full potential."
To make the course accessible to eligible young men in the community, the municipality has donated R150k to cover the cost of the course.
"The iThemba programme is another initiative that has received funding in order to empower the youth," the team said. The programme offers courses in sewing, beading/jewellery making, beading sculpture, and basic MS Office computer skills, with a focus on practical life skills and Christian values.
The idea behind the programme is to help equip young people with the business management knowledge needed to support their skills, develop employable skills, and facilitate them for home-based income-generating activities.
Last week Knysna Mayor Ndoda Aubrey Tsengwa visited Hands & Heart and iThemba. "The municipality's commitment to supporting the youth in the community is commendable," he said.
"These programmes not only provide young people with the skills and tools they need to succeed, but also help to eradicate poverty through enterprise and skills development. Moreover, these initiatives prepare young people for social change in the community through moral education and the development of social and Christian values."
He said the municipality's investment in the youth through such programmes is a significant step towards creating a brighter future for the next generation.
"The municipality encourages all young men and women in the community to take advantage of such exciting opportunities and realise their full potential."
Knysna Mayor Ndoda Aubrey Tsengwa with a group of students from Hands & Heart and iThemba.
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