A group of 30 young people from Harare, in Khayelitsha, will soon be able to search for work after completing a two week intensive computer training course.The youth were trained on Microsoft, Web design , Excel and Power-Point.And on Friday May 25 their efforts and perseverance were recognised when they received certificates. The young people were also praised for continuously seeking ways to empower and expand their knowledge.
Ward councillor, Bongani Ngcani, said there was an overwhelming number of unemployed youth in his ward. He said most have no computer skills and battled to get work. He said many were even unable to type out their CVs. Mr Ngcani said he discovered that some were lucky to get job interviews, but they did not know how to adequately prepare to make a good impression. Through the programme, he said he hoped to ignite opportunities for youth and better their employment chances. But most importantly, he said he wanted young people to use the skills they have gained to better the lives of other young people.
Mr Ngcani indicated that most companies recruit who people that have computer skills. He said he wanted groups not to be left behind. He also indicated that he hoped the training would inspire them to acquire additional computer skills. Mr Ngcani encouraged the graduates not just to be job seekers, but to create opportunities in the IT industry. “The attitude we want to instil in the youth is making the world better through technology,” he said. “Young people should be our top priority simply because they are the next leaders of this country.
We as councillors should be the ones who implement progressive youth orientated programmes.”
Mr Ngcani said lack of resources and other factors should not prevent community leaders from giving young people life changing skills to benefit communities.
“I had allocated R100 000 to this programme and it was the first time that I did something like this. These young people are hungry for opportunities,” he said.
Graduate, Busisiwe Tono , said she learnt a lot from the programme. She said her computer knowledge had been increased.
The 23-year-old said computer literacy had been a major stumbling block in her quest to get a job. She is now adamant that she will finally get a job .