The Department of Social Development will host its 4th National Youth Camp in Kimberley, Northern Cape – a youth leadership development programme that encourages healthy growth by providing young people the ability to analyse their own strengths and weaknesses; to set personal and vocational goals; and to gain the self-esteem, confidence, motivation, and abilities to carry out those goals not only for themselves, but for the communities they come from.
In his State of the Nation Address (SONA) early this year, President Jacob Zuma, declared 2015 as the year of investing more in our future, by educating our children and the youth about the rich heritage of this country. He further emphasized that, “Our youth is our future and their success fills us with immense pride”.
Guided by the theme, “Youth Moving South Africa forward through active community involvement”, the National Youth Camp will be held in collaboration with the Department of Defence and National Youth Development Agency (NYDA). It will also serve as a platform to advance the aspirations of the 1955 Freedom Charter which affirmed that, “the government shall discover, develop, and encourage national talent for the enhancement of our cultural life”.
The Minister of Social Development of Social Development, Ms Bathabile Dlamini, will officially open the National Youth Camp on December 3.
As we mark 17th anniversary of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign in South Africa under the theme, “Count me in: Together moving a non-violent South Africa forward”, youth also have an important part to play in this course. Youth will therefore be encouraged to be agents of change in their communities against alcohol and substance abuse and its consequences, especially as they contribute to gender-based violence.
The Department of Social Development has established the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC) – a 24-hour call centre dedicated to providing support and counselling to victims of gender-based violence. The toll-free number to call for assistance is 0800 428 428 (0800 GBV GBV). Callers can also request a social worker from the Command Centre to contact them by dialling *120*7867# (free) from any cell phone.
The National Youth Camp seeks to change behaviour, attitudes and empower the youth about opportunities at their disposal. The camp will also assist with mentoring and teaching young boys to grow into men who value and respect women.
Members of the media are invited to attend and cover opening of 2015 National Youth Camp arranged as follows:
Date: Thursday, 3 December 2015
Time: 12h00
Venue: 3 South African Infantry Battalion, Roodepan, Burkley West Road, Next to Kimberley, Northern Cape Province
RSVP:
Jaconia Kobue
Cell: 073 026 1111
Email: jaconiak@dsd.gov.za
Justice Ditshego
Cell: 079 4977426
Email: justiced@dsd.gov.za
Media inquiries may be directed to Ms Lumka Oliphant on 083 484 8067 or lumkao@dsd.gov.za
