Shaping the Future: Programme Enhancements & 2025 Vision at Salesian Institute Youth Projects
Shaping the Future:
Programme Enhancements & 2025 Vision at Salesian Institute Youth Projects
This year marks a significant milestone for the Salesian Institute Youth Projects. Established in 1910, we proudly celebrate 115 years of empowering at-risk youth. As we honour the legacy of our founder, St. Don Bosco, we reaffirm our commitment to transforming lives.
In this newsletter, we share the latest programme developments, ensuring we remain relevant and responsive to the needs of our youth. We look forward to a year filled with success stories and deeply appreciate your continued support.
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A Future of Skills, Hope, and OpportunityIn 2025, the Learn to Live School of Skills continues to be a beacon of hope for vulnerable youth, welcoming 238 learners, including 80 new intakes. As a flagship programme of the Salesian Institute Youth Projects (SIYP), the school provides a holistic approach to education—blending academics, vocational training, and essential life skills to break the cycle of poverty. More than just a school, it equips students aged 14-18 with technical skills, entrepreneurial knowledge, literacy development, and psychosocial support. Under the leadership of Principal Carla Cabrita, a dedicated team of educators, an occupational therapist, and a social worker ensure each learner's growth, with additional care provided by the on-site Wellness Centre. |
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Stitch Ahead Sewing Programme: Empowering Young CreatorsThe Stitch Ahead Sewing Programme is transforming the future of young aspiring designers and textile professionals. This SETA-accredited, four-month course provides youth aged 18 to 35 with hands-on training in industrial sewing, garment construction, and quality control—key skills for success in the fabric and textile industries. Students also learn to interpret patterns and, in the final incubation phase, are encouraged to create their own designs, nurturing both creativity and entrepreneurial ambition. By the end of the programme, graduates are equipped with the expertise to launch their careers or start their own ventures, stitching ahead toward a brighter future. |
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NEETs Programme DevelopmentsThe NEETS Youth Employability Programme recognized the growing demand for skilled workers in the renewable energy sector and introduced a dedicated technical component to its training offerings. As a result, it now provides a standalone 6- or 12-month QCTO-accredited Solar Photovoltaic Installer/Mounter Course. Designed for youth aged 18 to 27, the course requires a minimum Grade 11 pass with pure mathematics and equips participants with the technical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to install and maintain solar photovoltaic systems. With the global shift toward sustainable energy solutions, this qualification opens doors to promising career opportunities in the general electrical and rapidly expanding solar energy industry, empowering young people to build stable, future-focused careers. |
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Empowering Cape Town’s Youth: Salesian Institute Opens Maritime DoorsThe Waves of Change Maritime Programme equips young men and women (18–35) from disadvantaged backgrounds with essential skills for the maritime industry. SIYP, located near Cape Town’s bustling harbour, partners with leading sea fishing companies and SAMSA-accredited training institutions to provide rigorous, industry-approved training. This initiative opens doors to careers on local fishing vessels and, for some, opportunities with cruise lines—offering employment and the chance to travel and see the world, a life-changing prospect for many. |
As an NGO, we depend on ongoing fundraising to sustain and expand our youth programmes. Your support—whether through donations, gifts in kind, volunteering, employment opportunities for our youth, or strategic partnerships—drives our mission forward.
Make a difference today. Your support changes lives—one opportunity, one future at a time. Visit our website or contact us directly to be part of the impact.
The South African financial year is closing soon! If you are looking to support a worthy cause while maximizing your tax benefits, now is the time to donate.
By donating to Salesian Institute Youth Projects, you'll receive an 18A tax certificate - allowing you to claim deductions on your annual tax return.
