175 NEETs Students Graduate with SETA-Accredited Certificates in New Venture Creation, Wholesale and Retail and Solar Photovoltaic Mounter
Written by: Frieda Pehlivan Save to Instapaper
Salesian Institute Youth Projects (SIYP) Celebrates a Milestone in Empowering Youth Through Skills and Opportunity
Cape Town, 26 June 2025 — A proud moment unfolded this week at Old Mutual’s Mutualpark campus in Cape Town, as 175 young people graduated from the Salesian Institute Youth Projects’ (SIYP) NEETs Youth Employment Programme, receiving SETA-accredited certificates in Wholesale and Retail, New Venture Creation and Certificates for Solar Photovoltaic Mounter courses
The graduation ceremony marks a powerful chapter in a programme designed to offer a second chance to unemployed youth. The NEETs (Not in Employment, Education or Training) Programme was the vision of Fr Pat Naughton, conceptualised in 2020 and officially launched in 2021. Since then, it has evolved into a dynamic vehicle of youth empowerment.
Originally structured as a 12-month programme in New Venture Creation, it has expanded to include a 6- or 12-month Solar Photovoltaic Mounter / Installer course, equipping youth for participation in South Africa’s growing green energy sector.
“This is about restoring dignity and hope,” said Fr François Dufour, CEO of SIYP. “We believe in the resilience and potential of every young person who walks through our doors. These graduates are now equipped with the skills to create opportunities, not just for themselves, but for their communities too.”
Gabriel Hamuy, Programme Manager, added: “We’ve seen real transformation through this programme. Many of our graduates are already launching micro-enterprises or entering the workforce with confidence. It’s incredibly rewarding to see their growth and determination.”
Hosted in partnership with Old Mutual, the graduation ceremony was attended by proud families, donors, and partners, all gathered to celebrate the resilience, hard work, and potential of these young individuals.
📺 Watch the full graduation ceremony here: https://www.youtube.com/live/I-9xoW_pRGg?si=p3omSY3dBgIbvVen
About Salesian Institute Youth Projects For over 115 years, the Salesian Institute has provided education, skills development, and psychosocial support to vulnerable youth in Cape Town. The NEETs Youth Employment Programme is one of several SIYP initiatives aimed at breaking cycles of poverty and building brighter futures.
Media Contact: Frieda Pehlivan Communications Officer This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. www.salesianyouth.org.za
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