THE City remains committed to empowering the youth and providing opportunities to improve their lives. This was reiterated during a youth dialogue session held at the oThongathi Town Hall hosted by the Community Participation and Action Support Unit (CPASU).

North Region Coordinator Sam Maphumulo said the dialogue was part of advancing youth development in the region. “The struggle young people are enduring is real, and we are aware of it. Today’s programme provided a platform for young people to learn more about government programmes and their role in advancing the development and contributing to the growth of the City.” Participating in the economy, job creation, and addressing social ills were among the items that topped the agenda. Maphumulo said discussions ranged from substance abuse, genderbased violence, and the high unemployment rate among the youth. “Various Municipal departments shared information with young people to educate them on how to access government opportunities.”

Akhona Gumede from Ward 106, Waterloo, said the programme was a huge success. “We learned so much from the CPASU Youth Office as well as the Department of Social Development about the different funding available and other opportunities open to young people.” Gumede added: “We will use this information to start our own businesses to help create employment and grow the City’s economy. We don’t have to rely on others to create jobs when there is funding and assistance to help us empower ourselves and others.”