GCIS Western Cape

My District Today:

Bridging the Gap to Higher Education: Youth Day Empowers Grade 12 Learners in George

In celebration of Youth Month 2026, Grade 12 learners from across the greater George Municipal area gathered at the George Town Hall on 16 June 2026 for the Youth Day Level Up – University Edition programme.

The event was led by the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, MP, together with the Executive Mayor of the Garden Route District Municipality, Alderman Marais Kruger, in partnership with Suff Academy and the Western Cape Education Department (WCED).

The initiative empowered 220 top-performing matric learners from 12 high schools located in low-income communities by providing direct access to higher education opportunities and support services. Through a practical, hands-on approach, learners were assisted with university applications, accommodation registrations, bursary applications, document verification, and account creation.

The programme forms part of ongoing efforts to bring higher education services closer to communities and ensure that no deserving learner is left behind due to a lack of information or access. Various higher education institutions and entities participated in the event, including universities, NSFAS, Higher Health, and Khetha Career Development Services, each providing guidance aligned to their respective mandates.

Learners expressed excitement and optimism about their futures, sharing their career aspirations and appreciation for the opportunity to engage directly with institutions that can help them achieve their academic goals.

The event demonstrated government's commitment to empowering young people through education, skills development, and access to opportunities that will help shape the next generation of leaders.

My District Today
It was all systems go at South Cape TVET College in Oudtshoorn as GCIS, in partnership with the IEC, Department of Social Development, and Oudtshoorn Municipality, brought a dynamic campus activation straight to students.

With students wrapping up their Communication exams, GCIS used the moment to connect with them on the many career possibilities and work opportunities that come with a communication qualification.

The IEC helped students check their voter registration status ahead of the Local Government Elections taking place on 04 November 2026, reminding young people that their voice matters and their vote counts.

The Oudtshoorn Municipality Special Projects Unit encouraged students to attend community public participation meetings, where they can raise service delivery issues and be part of decisions that affect their everyday lives.

Adding to the momentum, the Department of Social Development unpacked exciting Youth Month programmes focused on entrepreneurship, job opportunities, further education and skills development. Students were encouraged to grab these opportunities and use them as steppingstones toward a brighter future.

The message of the day was clear: young people must participate, speak up, and vote. As South Africa celebrates 30 years of the Constitution, students were reminded that democracy works best when everyone plays their part.

GCIS and IEC Kick Off Voter Registration Drive at West Coast College
Today, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), in partnership with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), officially launched a voter registration awareness campaign at West Coast College.
The initiative aims to educate and encourage eligible students to register to vote and actively participate in South Africa's democratic processes. Through information sharing and engagement sessions, students were empowered with knowledge about the importance of voting and making their voices heard.
GCIS and IEC remain committed to promoting civic education and strengthening democratic participation among young people.
Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC)