Youth Summit empowers learners in Louwville, Vredenburg
The Department of Local Government Thusong Programme, in collaboration with the Community Development Workers Programme (CDWP), Saldanha Bay Municipality, and other key stakeholders, successfully hosted a Youth Summit in Louwville, Vredenburg on 17 February 2026. The summit formed part of the Thusong Outreach Programme conducted across the Saldanha Bay municipal area from 18–19 February 2026.
The summit targeted Grade 11 and Grade 12 learners from Westin Senior Secondary School and Louwville High School, recognising this stage as a critical transition period where learners make key decisions about subject choices, tertiary education, skills development, and future careers. Approximately 100–150 learners participated.
To ensure inclusive participation, transport was provided to and from the venue, and schools released learners at midday to enable full engagement.
The programme focused on providing practical guidance and access to opportunities, including:
- Curriculum and academic advice
- Career guidance
- Bursary and funding information
- Learnerships, internships, and apprenticeships
- Skills development programmes
- A career and opportunities exhibition featuring youth-focused stakeholders
Participating institutions engaged directly with learners, offering advice and outlining pathways into further education, training, and employment.
The Youth Summit supports the Department’s Annual Performance Plan (APP) indicator on facilitating access to youth opportunities. By bringing multiple stakeholders together on one platform, the initiative promotes informed decision-making, strengthens collaboration between schools and government programmes, and helps bridge the gap between education and the labour market.
In the face of ongoing youth unemployment challenges, the summit demonstrates government’s commitment to coordinated service delivery and long-term socio-economic development within the Saldanha Bay municipal area.
Media Enquiries:
Ms. Abigail Robinson
Director: Service Delivery Integration
Tel: 021 483 5106
Cell: 0739625249
Email: Abigail.Robinson@westerncape.gov.za