South Africa’s unemployment rate has increased rapidly, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. This has placed a huge burden on the state’s resources and the economy as the majority of the population affected by this has been plunged back into the cycle of poverty and limited access to opportunities. As a result, this negatively affects the development of young people in South Africa.
This year, Save the Children South Africa, together with Webhelp South Africa, Think Human Foundation and Share Think Human Foundation have partnered on a great digital transformation initiative. Upskilling the youth with critical skills needed in the 21st century is key to stop the poverty cycle.
Our Foundations and Save the Children
Both envision a world in which all young people are empowered through education to live up to their potential. Think Human Foundation’s mission is to foster the social and professional inclusion of young people with limited opportunities, through educative projects enhancing the skills needed to navigate the 21st century.
When did the partnership start?
In July 2022, Share, Think Human and Think Human Foundation validated Save the Children as a key new partner for 3 years. However, the launch of this ground-breaking initiative is in February 2023 as it took time to identify the right school and gather the stakeholders.
More about the project:
Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In South Africa and around the world, we work every day to give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. When crisis strikes, and children are most vulnerable, we are always among the first to respond and the last to leave. We ensure children’s unique needs are met and their voices are heard. We deliver lasting results for millions of children, including those hardest to reach. We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming their lives and the future we share.
The project will commence in Zwelihle Secondary School situated in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Save the Children will support digital inclusion and provide access to technology and internet services to learners from grade 10-12. They will be trained in the use of technology as well as gain skills in digital literacy, vocational training, tertiary education and employment.
The aim of this project is to impact positively 550 young people as well as have 10 teachers supporting digital learning. To ensure holistic technological understanding, and to maintain the momentum after the project, teachers at the school will also receive training to support digital learning. Additionally, the school will be assigned a dedicated facilitator and project manager to oversee stakeholder engagement and support, including social and emotional learning, resilience training, CV writing assistance and interview tips, as well as project implementation and reporting.