North West Department of Education Joins Forces in Launch of Job Shadowing Programme

The North West Department of Education says it is proud to be part of the launch of the Job Shadowing Programme, a transformative initiative driven by the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) in collaboration with Sibanye-Stillwater, TechnoGirl Trust, and Agape Youth Movement. The launch event, held at the Sibanye-Stillwater Recreation Club in Rustenburg, coincided with the celebrations of International Youth Day (IYD).

As the national custodian for youth development, the DWYPD continues to lead efforts to empower women, youth, and persons with disabilities in all their diversities. The Job Shadowing Programme has been designed as a crucial step towards equipping young people with the necessary skills and experiences to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving world. By offering opportunities for youth to gain insights and hands-on experience in various professions, the programme represents a significant stride towards fostering digital inclusion and ensuring that no young person is left behind.

Deputy Minister Steve Letsike highlighted the importance of the partnership with the Department of Basic Education, emphasizing the necessity of digital skills in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and other areas for achieving true digital inclusion in the country.

“We cannot leave the Department of Basic Education behind when we speak of youth. There’s a need for digital skills in STEM, as well as skills acquisition, for a country to truly achieve digital inclusion,” said Letsike.

MEC for Education in the North West, Viola Motsumi, praised the DWYPD for its dedication to creating opportunities that empower the youth, underscoring the impact of such initiatives on the future of the country.

“I want to commend the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities for this vital initiative. Programs like these are not just opportunities—they are lifelines that will help us build a more just, equitable, and prosperous society for all,” Motsumi stated.

The North West Department of Education was represented by senior managers and 24 learners from various schools in and around Rustenburg. The department remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting initiatives that provide youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the modern workforce. Through continued collaboration with key stakeholders, the department aims to prioritize youth development and ensure that young people across the province have access to opportunities that will shape their futures.