GAUTENG SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT HOSTS INFORMATION SESSION IN DIEPSLOOT

By Lehlohonolo Kumalo

• The Gauteng Department of Social Development hosted an information sharing session in Diepsloot, northern Johannesburg, providing advice on employment and educational opportunities.
• Participants had the opportunity to engage with various institutions about available programmes, jobs, and study options.
• The University of Johannesburg, Productivity South Africa, Richfield College and Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator also participated in the event.

Young people in Diepsloot had the opportunity to find out from experts what is required when they apply to study or get a job during a dialogue hosted in the township by the Gauteng Department of Social Development.

The department’s youth sub-directorate under sustainable livelihoods partnered with the University of Johannesburg, Productivity South Africa, Richfield College and Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator to share information with the youth of Diepsloot on 27 February 2025 under the theme ‘Power is knowledge’.

The objective of the dialogue was to equip youth with essential information on employment and educational opportunities.

Participants had the opportunity to engage with the various institutions about available programmes, jobs, and study options.

Thandeka Sinakgomo, one of the participants, expressed her appreciation for the initiative. “Harambe told us about many job opportunities and how to apply. I am happy that the institutions were here to provide us with crucial information,” she said.

Mutavhatsindi Murendeni, a student at the University of Johannesburg who grew up in Diepsloot, attended the session as part of the university’s community engagement efforts.

She emphasised the importance of exposing young people to opportunities that can shape their futures.

“We came to Diepsloot to encourage and uplift the youth while also informing them about the opportunities offered by the University of Johannesburg for further study,” she stated.

The session connected young people with crucial resources, supporting the importance of information-sharing in promoting empowerment, career growth, and personal development.

The Gauteng Department of Social Development remains committed to initiatives that support and uplift the youth, ensuring they are well-equipped to seize future opportunities.