First batch of the National Human Settlements youth brigades touched down in Thabanchu for Character-Build Training
Early this morning, 16 August 2015, a group of 200 National Human Settlements Youth Brigades from the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape arrived in Thabanchu, Free State Province for four months of rigorous training.
A total of 104 young people from the Western Cape and 94 youths from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality were chosen to attend the “Character-Build” training programme which focuses on principles of the nation building, voluntarism and patriotism, among others.
In December last year, the Department of Human Settlements in collaboration with various youth formations and other institutions of government signed a Youth Accord aimed at inspiring young people to take advantage of opportunities in the build environment.
The long-term aim is to create a crop of builders and construction workers who are well supported and sustained through coaching and mentorship.
The Implementation of the Youth Brigade includes training on character-building for the Youth Brigades by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform through the NARYSEC Program.
At the end of the four months training the two hundred Youth Brigades will be placed at FET Colleges for artisan development in different trades. The Department, through the National Home Builders Regulation Council (NHBRC) is already negotiating with the relevant FET colleges for the placements.
The Youth Brigades will also do experiential learning on the catalytic projects to be rolled out across the country by the Department of Human Settlements.
During the send-off ceremony in the Western Cape on Friday, The Deputy Minister for Human Settlements, Zou Kota-Fredericks said: “My children, this may be your first and last opportunity in life. It is in your capable hands to make the very best of it. You must always remember that discipline and responsibility are the fundamental founding blocks of success. Go there and represent the Youth of the Western Cape and South Africa at large.”
Enquiries:
Xolani Xundu
Cell: 083 788 5747
