A New Chapter Begins: Celebrating the First SIYP Graduation under QCTO Accreditation
A historic moment unfolded this week as the Salesian Institute Youth Projects (SIYP) hosted its first graduation ceremony as an accredited QCTO training provider under the Service SETA. It was far more than a celebration of certificates—it was a moment of pride, reflection, and new beginnings.
Born out of the need to rebuild hope and skills in the wake of COVID-19, the program has blossomed into a beacon of opportunity for Cape Town’s youth. A total of 147 learners graduated with nationally recognized qualifications, the culmination of months of training that combined technical and character skills with essential life coaching. The hall was alive with joy as families, friends, and partners gathered to celebrate not only academic achievement but also resilience, transformation, and a shared vision of a brighter future.
As we reflect on Don Bosco’s first learners in 1841 Italy, who began their journey of upliftment through education, we see that same spirit alive in today’s graduates. The Salesian legacy continues to evolve—now not only with compassion but also with compliance, certification, and clear career pathways.
In a powerful keynote address, Dr. Brian Figaji, a renowned education leader and former UNESCO Executive Board member, urged graduates to move beyond an entitlement mindset and embrace a culture of initiative. He challenged the notion of dependence on social grants, like SASSA, as a long-term solution, encouraging young people instead to reach for excellence through personal effort. “Employers are clear,” he said, “they hire for attitude and train for skills.” He left the graduates with a vital question: “Do you have respect, the right attitude, and the hunger to grow?”
This milestone aligns beautifully with Rotary’s commitment to skills development, youth empowerment, and economic resilience. The Rotary Club of Waterfront is proud to support such transformative initiatives, where education is not just about employability, but about dignity, direction, and community-building.
