In celebration of Youth Month, the City of Johannesburg’s Library and Information Services in Randburg recently hosted a skills development programme.
The aim of the event was to provide access to information through knowledge sharing by guiding the youth on the available opportunities. Information on bursaries, internships and training prospects were shared, the youth was given forms to fill whereby they would be on a job seekers database for future employment opportunities.
Librarian Njabulo Mdunge said: “We are passionate about fostering career development we have invited stakeholders so that they can connect by sharing information on the type of opportunities that they can grab to improve their lives and fight unemployment.”
The Unemployment Insurance Fund provided in-depth information on unemployment, maternity, and illness benefits. Participants were made aware on the type of documents needed when claiming for funds and encouraged to always have an employment contract.
Netshisaulu Mpfariseni from the Department of Labour said: “Our department provides career counselling, life skills advice, psychometric assessment, free registration and recruitment process to work and learning opportunities through our database system.”
A challenge that is limiting access by the youth to relevant information is the high rate of digital inequality and limited access to the internet. The participants were encouraged to use the services of libraries in the City because they have enough facilities and Wi-Fi.
The event ended on a sweet note as one of the participants, Moeketsi Makotoko, proudly said: “I did not know there were so many opportunities accessible. I now know what steps I need to take now to go forward.”
Date: 20/06/2022