Elias Nkabinde
As the world celebrates World Youth Skills Day on 15 July 2025, the City of Johannesburg and the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) are spotlighting a transformative achievement that fuses infrastructure and human development: the graduation of 368 young individuals from the National Certificate: Construction – Roadworks Skills Development Programme.
This milestone is a direct outcome of the City’s forward-thinking investment in youth empowerment through infrastructure-driven initiatives, particularly the Jabulani Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), led by the JDA.
Developed in partnership with the Department of Economic Development (DED) and Southwest Gauteng TVET College, the 12-month programme provided previously unemployed youth with hands-on and theoretical training in roadworks and maintenance.
“Each graduate’s success is reflected in the impactful infrastructure they helped deliver—such as the Molapo Bridge and Bolani Road upgrades—developments that continue to reshape Jabulani’s urban landscape,” said Themba Mathibe, CEO of the JDA.
The Jabulani TOD, one of Johannesburg’s flagship precinct development projects, unfolds over seven strategic phases to champion sustainable, transit-oriented urban growth. It stands as a powerful example of how infrastructure investments can act as catalysts for job creation, enterprise development, and lasting youth inclusion.
Armed with accredited qualifications, graduates are now equipped to enter the construction and civil engineering sectors—or launch their ventures—signalling a new wave of local economic participation.
Observed globally on 15 July, World Youth Skills Day highlights the urgency of equipping young people with the competencies needed for meaningful work, entrepreneurship, and sustainable progress. This year’s theme aligns seamlessly with Johannesburg’s vision of a future city, not just built for youth but built by youth.
“As the JDA continues implementing transformative developments citywide, we remain committed to embedding youth skills development into every project. This ensures that young people aren’t left on the sidelines—they are the foundation of Johannesburg’s next chapter,” Mathibe added.
SOURCED FROM JOBURG WEBSITE.
