Issued by: SA Communication Service
The foundation for National Service for South African youth will be laid before the end of this year, ending a three-day strategic planning "bosberaad" with official representatives from each of the nine provinces, the NYC said National Youth Service was isolated by provinces as one of the priority action items arising from the National Youth Policy.
"The mandate to take forward urgent work on the National Youth Policy is now overwhelming," said NYC Acting CEO, Paul Johnson. "We will be moving forward immediately with the announcement of a technical task team who will convert the stipulations of the National Youth Policy into a practical proposal for government.
Earlier the conference heard Deputy Minister Essop Pahad indicated that government was ready for a practical proposal in this regard. "The Youth Commission has delivered the policy on schedule - the challenge is to make this a reality in the same efficient manner," said Pahad.
Johnson pointed out that two national radio phone ins had recorded over 90% support for the principle of community youth service. Throughout the consultation process, only one organisation - the Freedom Front - registered objection to national service.
Other projects recommended for urgent work included the Youth Information Service Project and the development of a National Youth Action Plan as a practical supplement to the National Youth Policy. Youth Information Services is a comprehensive information service which will be available to the youth via an 0800 number, Internet web site and a national "Youth Passport", containing youth rights, responsiblities, services and opportunities. The NYC and Universal Services Agency are working together to facilitate the provision of "Youth Line" access points in communities across the country.
This is a crucial year for the NYC," said Jackson. "The days of planning and consultation are over and even though government departments will be acrual implementers of the initiatives, there is a clear responsibility on us to ensure it happens."
Issued by: BONGANI DLADLA, Communications Officer, NYC, 083 626 3770