Education Hosts Masakhane Youth Leadership Course

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The School of Education, in partnership with Community Development Association (CDA), a student-run community outreach organisation, hosted the 17^th annual Masakhane Youth Leadership Course (MYLC) for Grade 11 learners from predominantly disadvantaged schools in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.

Participants enjoyed enriching activities and teaching from some of the University’s best academics during the week-long course. Topics included democratic participation, conflict management, managing and embracing diversity, transformative leadership, decolonisation, youth activism and entrepreneurship. 

‘The MYLC does not only train potential South African leaders for their leadership roles in schools, but also equips them for such positions in the future – a crucial approach given South Africa’s current youth leadership crisis,’ said School of Education Dean and Head, Professor Thabo Msibi.

Mr Vincent Dlala, a learner from Nkosibomvu Secondary School in Tongaat, was ecstatic to be a part of the course, saying he learned a great deal. ‘I have learned so much from everybody here and have also made some new friends. Attending the panels and hearing the speakers makes me feel like I can make a difference in my community,’ he said.

Another learner, Ms Nosipho Mtshali from JG Zuma High School in KwaMashu said, ‘The Leadership Course has motivated me to work harder and taught me how to be an effective leader in my school and my community. The issues discussed were relevant to us and I will go back and share them with others.’

CDA Foundation Chairperson, Mr James Ndlovu, thanked the sponsors for partnering with the organisation in ensuring the course was successful. ‘For the past 17 years, the vision of our founder, Professor Thabo Msibi, continues to inspire hope and impact thousands of young people in South Africa. CDA remains committed to shaping the country’s future through investing in potential leaders and this is all thanks to the generosity of our sponsors to whom we are eternally grateful,’ said Ndlovu.

Words: Melissa Mungroo 

Photographs supplied by CDA