THE PULSE
PLUGGED IN
The Johannesbug Junior Executive Council during an education on Freedom Day this year.
THE YOUTH AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT Getting the youth involved in civic activities will ensure that the country’s future leaders are equipped with the skills and mindsets to contribute to South Africa’s growth and success, writes Puseletso Mompei
I
nvolving young people in various local government projects is crucial to developing civic-minded citizens and responsible, informed leaders. To entrench a culture of active citizenry in the country’s youth, municipalities, including the City of Johannesburg, eThekwini, Midvaal, and others, have embarked on initiatives and programmes to include and develop the youth and address some of their issues.
CITY OF JOHANNESBURG: CREATING LEADERS The City of Johannesburg says that the core business of the legislature is to ensure good governance, built on a strong and empowered citizenry.
ISSUE 35
SALGA35_Youth.indd 9
The Johannesburg Student Council (JSC) is a civic education channel that was developed to enhance public participation, develop civic-mindedness and educate citizens about local government. Established in 2008, the JSC’s aims are to: create awareness of the importance of civic responsibility through skills and leadership development; build the awareness of and interest in the affairs of local government; and act as a platform for the youth where ongoing dialogue and discussion on issues affecting them is encouraged. The council develops and encourages volunteerism in the youth and demonstrates its importance for communities, the city and the country. It also introduces the concept of “model citizen”, describing it as one who is aware of constitutional rights and obligations. The council hopes to develop a new generation of local government practitioners who are knowledgeable about civic issues and the functioning and structures of local government. During their two-year term of office, the students sitting on the council participate in interactive workshops on topics including democracy education, use of social media and technology, personal branding, protocol and etiquette, and listening skills. They also enrol in programmes aimed at skills development, including project management skills, debating skills, creative arts, writing skills and organisational skills. The Junior Student Council programme promotes volunteerism by identifying institutions and communities where volunteer work is needed, for example, orphanages and old age homes. Exposure is a key component of the council and it facilitates international and local exchanges to the USA, Germany and Cape Town.
The Johannesburg Student Council is a civic education channel that was developed to enhance public participation, develop civic-mindedness and educate citizens about local government.
VOICE OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT
9
2021/06/30 5:30 PM
