Youth development is a priority for Bergrivier Municipality and one of its main youth-oriented programmes is LoTYDE.
At the annual event local youth are introduced to various tertiary institutions and prospective employers, broadening their knowledge and ultimately allowing them to make well-informed career choices.
This according to Alderman Ray van Rooy, Executive Mayor of Bergrivier. At this year’s event he emphasised the importance of showcasing the different study opportunities, bursary options and the specific requirements to successfully enrol for their desired degree, diploma or higher certificate at the institution of their choice.
On Friday 21 July approximately 550 learners from the various high schools within the Bergrivier municipal area attended the open day at Steynville Primary in Piketberg. The expo prioritises learners in grades 11 and 12 to motivate and encourage them to further their education.
LoTYDE has a symbolic meaning as this acronym stands for Leaders of Tomorrow Youth Development Expo, referring to the low tide of the ocean whereby youth receive the necessary preparation during their high school years.
This programme is also aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s), ensuring quality education for everyone. Through continuous support and contributions by the Department of Education, LoTYDE was established in 2015, being driven by the Office of the Executive Mayor. It expands annually.
Representatives from Piketberg, Steynville and Velddrif high schools had the chance to engage with institutions including West Coast College, Gene Louw Traffic College and the University of Stellenbosch. The stakeholders showcased some of the courses and bursaries they have on offer. Nedbank assisted the learners with relevant financial information, while the Western Cape Government provided the learners with information about its bursary opportunities and learnership programmes.
“The reality is that there are not any tertiary facilities within the Bergrivier municipal area, some learners don’t have access to internet or a computer to do proper research, resulting in many of them not being able to submit their applications,” explained Van Rooy.
The new music sensation Ricky vani Frontline entertained the learners with some of his most popular songs. His comedic colleague Ashwin Martin had a mouthful to say, as always, having everyone in stitches.
Ashley Pienaar, master of ceremonies and motivational speaker, rocked the stage with his own unique comedic performances and kept the crowd on their feet and their eyes glued to the stage. Several learners won some exciting prizes, including electronic devices, through lucky draws.
