500 Learners Mark Youth Month

EThekwini Municipality placed economic empowerment at the centre of its Youth Month and Africa Day commemoration, with over 500 learners in attendance, showcased funding, training, and business support initiatives aimed at building a pipeline of young entrepreneurs and future job creators.

The programme, held at the Durban City Hall today, 11 June, highlighted youth development interventions, including structured entrepreneurship support, education assistance, and targeted funding opportunities designed to expand economic participation among young people.

Delivering the keynote address, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba said the commemoration reflects both historical reflection and practical investment in youth development.

“Today, as we gather in this historic City Hall, we honour the vibrant spirit of our youth and celebrate the enduring strength of our African identity. Youth Month reminds us of the courage and sacrifices of the young people who shaped our democracy, while Africa Day calls us to unity, pride, and shared progress across our continent. As eThekwini Municipality, we are committed to empowering our youth as drivers of innovation, leadership, and inclusive development,” said Mayor Xaba.

Chairperson of the Governance and Human Resources Committee, Councillor Nkosenhle Madlala, outlined key youth empowerment programmes being implemented by the Municipality.

“Economic empowerment remains a key focus area. Our Back-to-School Programme and Student Relief Fund will continue into the next financial year to support learners and students in need,” he said.

He further highlighted the Municipality’s Youth Month Business Challenge, which supports young entrepreneurs whose businesses have been operational for more than one year. 

The initiative provides structured support, with the top three entrepreneurs collectively receiving business resources valued at approximately R70 000, while a further 17 participants share resources valued at approximately R170 000.

Learners also had the opportunity to engage directly with the City leadership, sharing their priorities and aspirations for youth development. 

Key suggestions included improved access to free Wi-Fi, increased employment opportunities, and better use of school time to support productivity and personal development.

One of the participants, Grade 12 learner Nokwanda Nxumalo from Umqhawe High School in Inanda, said the programme was both inspiring and aligned with her future aspirations.

“The programme was very helpful to me, as I wish to become an Arts lecturer,” she said.

The event concluded with the awarding of five iPads to learners who participated in a competition engaging the Mayor on youth development priorities.

The Municipality said the initiative forms part of its broader commitment to strengthening youth inclusion, education outcomes, and economic participation across eThekwini.