The high school children in our center are very optimistic, happy and always participate in games and dances. They all have plans and aspirations for their future. But it is in the final years of school that they become aware of the reality of their circumstances. With a township school-leaving qualification and no additional education or skills, there is almost no chance of finding a job. But such further training costs money, which the young people generally do not have. Government grants are only available to a few in the township.
South Africa is not one of the poorest countries, but it still has the highest unemployment rate in the world at 31.9%. According to the latest Labour Force Survey figures, 17.1 million people are in employment, while 12.3 million are unemployed (2/3 of whom are long-term unemployed). Apparently, more than 3.5 million are discouraged job seekers, i.e. they have given up looking for work. Among young people aged between 15 and 24, the national unemployment rate is 59.6%, and in Soshanguve it is almost 90%.
Our foundation tries to encourage young people to believe in a future for themselves. We have already been able to offer more than 35 young people a one-year traineeship in skilled trades. In addition, more than 10 former participants from our center are in training or have completed their courses, even university studies. Among them are: Teacher, Early Childhood Educator, Human Resource Manager, Office Assistant, Paramedic, Police College trainee as well as private school students and a medical student. A wide range of life-changing successes and good starts to an independent life.
House of Encouragement