
SEVERAL Port Alfred High School pupils recently received their bronze President’s Award for Youth Empowerment.
The award programme identifies development as one of the cornerstones of empowerment and has proven itself to be a powerful developmental tool for young people. Ultimately the programme focuses on how pupils grow and cultivate a sense of self-development.
The criteria for the awards programme, in conjunction with mentorship with the award leaders, are that pupils need to advocate skills development, physical recreation, community service and an adventurous journey.
The involvement of the youth in these activities changes their perception of themselves and their world.
The programme also teaches them about vital issues such as health, political and social life as well as the environment.
Completion of the programme also equips the individual for further training and fulfilling work. Both tertiary institutions and workplaces increasingly see value in the award programme.
According to the President’s Award programme, “As the youth integrate the values of the programme into their lives, they become empowered, believing that they can turn their dreams into realities. Empowered youth can make informed choices and are less likely to compromise their future.”
The President’s Award has brought change in the lives of more than 130000 young people in South Africa since 1983. It is also a member of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Association, as part of a family of more than 140 countries that operate the programme around the world.