South Africa

In South Africa, TDH supports projects that aim to empower children and youth from previously disadvantaged areas mainly through education-related support and activities that build their coping mechanisms in a challenging environment. Partnerships with local NGOs include Early Childhood Development, literacy and after-school programmes, including extra tuition, life skills, sports and play. In addition, youth development projects offer access to vocational training and tertiary education, improve job readiness and self-confidence of school graduates.

Issues addressed in working with children and youth furthermore include gender-based violence, child protection, HIV and AIDS, xenophobia, and child migration.

Projects are currently supported in the greater Johannesburg area and Nelson Mandela Bay (Eastern Cape).

Project Example

Child and youth development through sports, life skills and learning support

The programme is composed of four pillars: A Mass Participation Programme (MPP) in schools supports access to physical education for thousands of children.  This allows them to profit from health improvements and emotional well-being benefits as well as related life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and decision-making.  On the second level, the Junior School of Excellence Programme provides a safe space for children selected from the MPP to come, learn and play after school in an environment where they feel secure. Through this programme component, they develop further life skills and academic abilities to help them navigate their daily challenges.

The third pillar is the Senior School of Excellence Programme supporting children to receive a top-level academic education and continued high-level sports coaching. In the fourth area, UTS supports youth with the transition from school to some form of higher training or vocational skills development opening up opportunities to find meaningful employment later. Youth receive career guidance and study advice as well as assistance with CV writing or interview preparation. Youth are encouraged to support each other in this process, providing help with academic work or exchanging information on career opportunities.