×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Starter pack to ensure young people find niche in workplace

Susan Chala

Susan Chala

Here is why the Power Your Future (PYF) Starter Pack is being launched - the growing number of youths trapped in unemployment is rapidly escalating into a national crisis.

Some of the reasons that leave millions trapped without prospects include a lack of experience or knowledge of the workplace, an education of a poor or inferior quality, as well as a lack of resources to study after school for qualifications, or skills for employment.

As a result, the career or work prospects of millions of affected youths are perpetually frustrated. Unable to access practical and useful information on options, a sense of paralysis - followed by despondency - becomes a common experience.

Why the PYF Starter Pack concept? The intention is to be part of the solution by:

l Identifying which core life skills and practical steps are likely to be of the greatest assistance to work-seeking youth.

l Grouping these skills, or actions into a comprehensive "starter pack" for school leavers.

The PYF Starter Pack will contain:

l Paperwork for life: ID and other documentation; bank account with start-up money-postal address setup.

l On the road: Learner's driver's licence.

l Career Quest: resources and workshop on workplace readiness skills and critical life skills.

l Getting kitted out: providing each participant with a workplace outfit and a cellphone.

Sowetan education PYF is due to run a pilot starter pack course with participants selected through the give-away campaign, in order to:

l Evaluate the effectiveness of each component in achieving employability by tracking those who participated in the starter pack course.

l Adjust and refine PYF starter pack content and delivery for optimum effectiveness.

l And, to explore the possibility of increasing the reach of the starter pack concept offerings, in partnership with various funders.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.