Young people from across Buffalo City gathered at Dice Hall recently for a youth empowerment programme hosted by Kumkani FM, where government departments, higher education institutions and skills development organisations joined forces to connect unemployed youth with education, training and employment opportunities.
The event brought together representatives from the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), the department of employment and labour, Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), Walter Sisulu University, the University of Fort Hare and other local organisations, all committed to helping young people build brighter futures.
Through presentations, exhibitions and interactive discussions, participants received guidance on career choices, bursaries, internships, learnerships, entrepreneurship and skills development programmes aimed at improving employability.
Speaking on behalf of the station, Kumkani FM’s Good Life show presenter Sizo Dosi said the event was organised in response to the growing crisis of youth unemployment.
“We are facing a major challenge of youth unemployment, which is why we decided to invite stakeholders who can assist young people on how they can unlock opportunities during these difficult times,” Dosi said.
“We want these organisations to share valuable information with young people who are searching for opportunities. Our aim is to empower them with knowledge that can change their lives.”
She said organisations such as YAM Business Solutions, Isisombululo and others also participated to inspire and educate attendees.
Department of employment and labour manager Nozuko Ngam, who oversees career counselling under public employment services, encouraged unemployed people to make use of the department’s free services.
“We are here to assist unemployed graduates and job seekers by equipping them with the skills and guidance they need to secure employment,” Ngam said.
“We also help people choose careers that align with their personalities, interests and qualifications. Jobs are difficult to find, which is why these services are so important.”
Ngam encouraged everyone to register on the department’s Employment Services of SA (ESSA) database.
“It is important for job seekers to register because when employment opportunities become available, employers search this database for suitable candidates.
“As a department, we continuously engage with private companies, government departments, SETAs and other potential employers to identify opportunities for unemployed people.”
She emphasised that the service is available to everyone who is willing and able to work.
“Even if you do not have a qualification, please come and register.
“We cater for everyone seeking employment. Bring your CV and supporting documents.”
Ngam also highlighted Project 20K, an initiative launched by former Eastern Cape MEC of health and current minister of employment and labour Nomakhosazana Meth. Project 20k aims to place 20,000 unemployed graduates in internship opportunities across SA.
Among those who welcomed the initiative was Dora Apleni, 75, a Reeston resident raising four teenage granddaughters and a teenage grandson on her R2,500 government grant.
“I am so grateful they came to our community,” Apleni said.
“Our children are unemployed, and we don’t know how to help them because we never had the opportunity to go to school. Programmes like this give them hope.”
Unemployed mother of one Anelisa Sango, 30, said she never misses opportunities to attend career and employment events.
“We are looking for work, so I always come to programmes like this because I might hear about an opportunity that could change my life. I appreciate this because we need jobs.”
Kumkani FM’s sales and marketing officer Bathabile Luvuno also introduced the station’s new sales force initiative, designed to help unemployed young people earn an income while gaining valuable business experience.
“As part of our contribution towards addressing unemployment, we are giving young people the opportunity to earn money by selling advertising packages for Kumkani FM,” Luvuno said.
“We are looking to recruit 21 young people during this intake. Besides earning commission, they will receive training in business development, financial literacy, customer relations and how to approach businesses professionally.”
He said the initiative aims to equip participants with practical skills that will benefit them long after the programme ends.
The event formed part of Kumkani FM’s ongoing commitment to using its platform not only to inform listeners but also to create meaningful opportunities that empower communities and inspire young people to take charge of their futures.
