DCAS partners with Northlink College | Western Cape Government

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DCAS partners with Northlink College

15 October 2015

On Wednesday 14 October 2015 the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) partnered with the Northlink College in a win-win approach that will underpin how the Western Cape Government continues to do business with its valued partners to improve the lives of youth.

DCAS is involved in exciting activities at its Mass Participation; Opportunity and Access; Development and Growth (MOD) Programme that contributes to social inclusion in communities across the province.  This after-school programme is operational across the province. Conditions and opportunities are created for youth to develop their skills and interests in a safe environment.

Northlink College is the only Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College providing accredited sport courses, namely, Sport Administration (NQF Level 4); Sport Coaching (NQF Level 4); National Certificate in Sport Management (NQF Level 5); National Certificate in Coaching Science (NQF Level 5); and National Diploma in Sport Fitness (NQF Level 5).

The partnership between DCAS and the College is an exciting, new initiative in the Western Cape and provides a platform for each graduate who successfully completed either one of the sport qualifications to plough knowledge and competencies back into communities as well as to assist with young athlete development and other skills in sport and arts at the after-school centres.

Head of Department of DCAS, Brent Walters, welcomed the partnership with Northlink. “The sport sector occupies a very important space in our economy. According to a study it contributes substantially to our country’s economy and for this reason it’s important that we train people with the necessary qualifications and skills so that they can be employed in the sector.” he said.

“With our approach being more academic, it will definitely assist with enhancing the level of sport administration and coaching” said Paul Hendricks, Director of Sport Development.

DCAS will, when available, offer internships to students who have successfully completed the Course, subject to meeting the criteria and students will be placed at the MOD Centres nearest to their respective homes, subject to availability.  The College will make the use of its Tygerberg Campus Sport and Arts facilities available to DCAS.

The South Africa National Lottery recently granted funding for students to study in the field of Sport. Therefore funding and/or financial assistance is available to prospective students who wish to study at Northlink College. Prospective students can contact the Tygerberg Campus or visit www.northlink.co.za.

This partnership offers learners and students a safe environment where they can learn new skills and develop their talent. Communities should support the MOD Programme and encourage youth to take part to become productive and invest in talent, Better Together.

Media Enquiries: 

Tania Colyn
Head of Communication Service
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 9877
E-mail: tania.colyn@westerncape.gov.za