A recruitment process for the Junior City Council (JCC) is currently underway, with local schools encouraged to nominate pupils for the 2018-’19 programme.
The closing date for nominations is Friday 1 December.
The JCC, a programme of the City of Cape Town and the provincial education department, is a forum for high school pupils that seeks to broaden their knowledge of local government – with special reference to municipal matters – and help them understand the scope and extent of the functions performed by local government.
It’s a non-political structure and participation by public and independent high schools is voluntary. Activities will take place on weekends and over holidays.
The programme aims to represent all 116 wards and 24 subcouncils in the metropole. Councillor Benedicta van Minnen, JCC custodian, said its role is to assist council in making the youth aware of their ability to mobilise for positive change in their communities and to work jointly to address socio-economic challenges.
The objectives of the JCC are to:
- develop good leadership skills among high school youths;
- help the youth become good citizens and develop their interest in civic and community affairs;
- equip youths with critical thinking skills that will help them develop an understanding of public policy processes;
- develop an awareness of those less privileged and of problems within the community;
- teach the youth to become involved in community issues and solve problems independently; and
- develop strong individuals who can guide their peers.
“The JCC is an important vehicle to drive the City’s Organisational Development and Transformation Plan goal to work with residents in identifying and solving problems,” Van Minnen explained.
“In addition, being part of the JCC will improve personal skills and self-image so that young people can become confident in their ability to bring about change in their schools and communities.”
Pupils accepted in the programme are expected to be engaged in community-based or service learning activities at school, providing regular progress reports on chosen activities.
Participation in the programme is via nomination only. Principals and teachers responsible for the Representative Council of Learners or a senior teacher can assist in the nomination process. Interested schools can nominate two pupils in Grade 8 to 10 with the potential to make a significant contribution to the school and community’s development.
Send nominations via fax or email to 086 202 8854 or Levona.Africa@capetown.gov.za, or Sharif.Sayed@capetown.gov.za.
