The Imbali Education and Innovation Precinct (IEIP) in collaboration with Durban University of Technology (DUT): Student Administration and uMgungundlovu TVET College (UTVET) recently attended an Open Day event hosted by the Inkazimulo Youth Empowerment that took place at the Buffer community hall.
The aim of the event was to engage with students and young entrepreneurs who wish to venture into business and accelerate them. Furthermore, to share knowledge with learners about career opportunities.
The event was facilitated by Inkazimulo Youth Empowerment Founding Director: Ms Anele Makhanya. She unpacked the purpose of the day, followed by a brief presentation of her organisation’s achievements.
“I am very passionate about assisting the youth which is why our organisation focuses mostly on business, schools and educational facilities whilst applying for assistance in underprivileged communities. We want to encourage the Buffer community to work hard, seek opportunities that might be beneficial and more especially the youth to understand that education indeed is the key to success,” she said.
Alongside Makhanya was Inkazimulo Youth Empowerment Administration Director: Nomfundo Dlamini who elaborated on how they assist students with tertiary applications and bursaries.
Ward 13 ANC Youth League Secretary: Ms Thembelihle Mbatha shared words of support with the community.
“This is such a great initiative for the youth. I will like to suggest that such programmes should not only be offered to students eligible for university submission, but for whoever who might wish to further improve their knowledge on different programmes offered in higher institutions of learning,” said Ms Mbatha.
The programme consisted of different presentations, where the Executive Secretary to the Midlands Campuses Director: Mrs Silindile Qwabe presented about the IEIP. Furthermore, she encouraged the youth to also use their talents and start businesses.
“There are unforeseen circumstances that force change in people’s lives, the youth should not only study to be employees but also employers as we are living in the 4th industrial revolution,” stated Mrs Qwabe.
The DUT Head of Department (HOD) for Student Administration: Ms Nelly Ndlovu elaborated on the different programmes offered at DUT and also mentioned that it is important for learners to understand the requirements when applying through the Central Application Office (CAO).
The representatives from the TVET colleges and the TBHIV Care spoke on how a person can still further their studies and have a better future despite their underprivileged background and low results restricting them from university admission. They also highlighted the different programmes offered within their organisations.
Subsequently, there was a question and answer session and most of the attendees showed great participation.
Pictured: Attendees at the INKAZIMULO Youth Empowerment Open Day Event.
Zanele Mashaba and Bongeka Sokhela
