WORLD POPULATION DAY BUILD-UP WITH MONYAKENG YOUTH

By Lerato Khatheane

• With a focus on youth mobilisation, the Department of Social Development (DSD) in Lejweleputswa District hosted a World Population Day build-up.
• The programme aims to address social issues and development challenges through ongoing dialogue with young people.
• The initiative involves collaboration with various local and provincial stakeholders to empower the youth and improve their quality of life.

The Department of Social Development (DSD) in Lejweleputswa District recently hosted a World Population Day build-up, focusing on youth mobilisation. This initiative seeks to foster ongoing dialogue with young people about social issues, development challenges, and opportunities. The programme aims to engage youth in all project phases, creating appropriate responses to their social and developmental needs.

The District’s Community Development Directorate, in collaboration with the Population and Research Directorate from the Provincial Offices, organised the Youth Mobilisation programme. This initiative, which targets improving the well-being of Monyakeng’s young men and women, focuses on ten priority areas: education, employment, hunger and poverty, health, environment, drug abuse, juvenile delinquency, leisure time activities, girls and young women, and the effective participation of youth in society and decision-making.

To achieve these goals, the District works closely with local stakeholders, including the NYDA, SEDA, Nala Municipality, the Office of the Premier GBVf and CDWs, CUT, Goldfields TVET College, Wits RHI Department of Finance, Tourism & Economic Development, and various Community-Based Organisations in Monyakeng.

Collaboration with local and provincial stakeholders aims to create and strengthen youth organisations that enhance the quality of life for community members. These efforts help create an environment where individuals can empower themselves. Through youth mobilisation, the programme promotes diversity and equity, especially for those most affected by social challenges. The initiative also highlights the significant contributions and support of the youth in successful programmes throughout the Free State province.

By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the Youth Mobilisation programme aims to address the pressing issues facing young people in Monyakeng, empowering them to become active participants in their communities and in shaping their future.