SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT DRAWS STRONG YOUTH INTEREST AT NPO EXHIBITION STALL

By Sello Tang

• ⁠The Department’s DigiNPO portal enables on-site, mobile registration of non-profit organisations, improving access and reducing costs.
• Youth participants welcomed the convenience of digital services, with one beneficiary stating: “I am now moving forward with my registration and working towards becoming self-employed.”
• Accessibility considerations for persons with disabilities were raised, highlighting opportunities to strengthen inclusive service delivery.

The Department of Social Development continues to attract significant interest from young people at its exhibition stall during the Vaal EmpowaYouth Week 2026, currently taking place at the Koinonia Bible Church in Sebokeng Zone 14, Gauteng.

The stall has become a focal point for youth seeking information and support services, particularly around the registration of Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) through the newly launched DigiNPO portal.

One of the visitors, Ms Thandi Angelinah Shange from Zone 12 in Sebokeng, expressed appreciation for the assistance she received in registering her NPO online using her mobile phone.

“I would like to express my heartfelt thanks and sincere gratitude for the swift assistance and guidance you offered in helping me register my NPO with ease online,” she said.

Her experience highlights the efficiency of the digital system, which enables community members to access services without incurring travel costs to the Department’s offices in Pretoria.

Shange, who has studied Ancillary Health Care as well as Tourism and Community Development at Vaal Technical Institution, indicated that the support she received has strengthened her confidence to pursue self-employment and contribute meaningfully to her community. She has successfully submitted her application and is currently awaiting the issuance of her registration certificate.

Another visitor, Mr Mohau Kutoane from Sharpeville, attended the exhibition prepared with the required documentation, including copies of identification for three office bearers. While he welcomed the support provided on-site, he raised concerns regarding the accessibility of the DigiNPO system for persons with visual impairments.

“I do not know much about this online system, which is why I came to this summit to get assistance. I also have cataracts and am short-sighted. What options are available for people like me if the system does not cater for visually impaired individuals?” he said.

In response, officials provided assistance and guidance on the registration process. The feedback highlights the importance of enhancing digital platforms to accommodate users with disabilities, including the potential integration of assistive technologies.

Now in its third day, the Vaal EmpowaYouth Week 2026 continues to provide young people with access to information on employment and development opportunities. Participants have been encouraged to explore opportunities offered by various institutions and organisations.

Youth unemployment remains a significant challenge in South Africa, with many young people facing barriers such as limited work experience, skills mismatches, and restricted access to opportunities. Broader structural challenges, including economic constraints and inequality in education and training, continue to affect the ability of youth to enter and participate meaningfully in the labour market.

Initiatives such as the Department’s exhibition at Vaal EmpowaYouth Week play an important role in bridging these gaps by providing accessible services, information, and support to empower young people towards economic participation.