Salesian Institute Youth Projects Receives International Assistance
Minister Lindiwe Zulu and Turkish Ambassador Ayşegül Kandas cutting the ribbon for the new electrical workshop at the Learn to Live School
Salesian Institute Youth Projects (SIYP) and the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) Collaborate to Enhance the Learn to Live School of Skills’ Electrical Workshop
The Salesian Institute Youth Projects (SIYP) is thrilled to announce the successful upgrade of the Electrical vocational workshop at their Learn to Live School of Skills, thanks to the generous support of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA). The funding provided by TIKA has resulted in the procurement of new equipment and the overall improvement of the electrical vocational workshop, which greatly benefits the learners at the school (aged 14 to 18).
The Electrical workshop has undergone a remarkable transformation, featuring the installation of new tools, workbenches, storage cabinets, and an air-conditioning unit. These enhancements have created a functional, pleasant, and inspiring learning environment that will significantly enrich the educational experience for the students.
Left: Turkish Ambassador Ayşegül Kandas, Centre: Minister Lindiwe Zulu and Right: John Doidge of Salesian Institute Youth Projects
On 6 June 2023, Mr Abdulkadir Abukan, Coordinator of TIKA, officially handed over the newly refurbished electrical workshop to the Learn to Live School of Skills, underscoring TIKA’s unwavering commitment to skills development in South Africa. “Funded by the Turkish government and ultimately by Turkish citizens’ taxes, TIKA’s contribution to SIYP is a heartfelt gift from the Turkish people, said MrAbukan. Ambassador Ayşegül Kandas echoed this sentiment and confirmed that Turkiye aims to “pay it forward” through initiatives like these, with the goal of motivating, inspiring, and empowering the youth to become independent citizens. “Through compassion and giving we would like to continue this dialogue,” said Ambassador Kandas.
The upgrade of the electrical workshop represents a significant milestone and a major stride forward in SIYP’s dedication to providing high-quality vocational training for marginalised youth at risk, aged between 14 to 18, who encounter challenges in mainstream academic institutions.
“We are immensely grateful for the contribution made by TIKA and Turkiye, which has transformed our electrical workshop into a space that will greatly enhance the learning experience of our students,” expressed John Doidge, a longstanding Board member of SIYP. “This upgrade will undoubtedly inspire and empower our learners, enabling them to develop valuable skills and pursue brighter futures,” Mr Doidge said.
Minister Lindiwe Zulu, Minister of Social Development, graced the handover ceremony as the guest of honour. It was through the Minister’s office and the National Development Agency (NDA) that the relationship between SIYP and TIKA was established. Minister Zulu maintains a longstanding relationship with SIYP and wholeheartedly supports their youth development initiatives.
Turkish Ambassador Ayşegül Kandas
The Salesian Institute has been providing technical training for underprivileged youth since 1910 and for the past 28 years, the Learn to Live School of Skills at the Institute has served as a beacon of hope to youth at risk. Learn to Live offers a comprehensive 4-year Training Programme to academically compromised youth from marginalized and impoverished communities. The program combines fundamental numeracy and literacy education with extensive Lifeskills coaching, supported by on-site professionals such as Social Workers and Occupational Therapists. In addition to existing programs in Hospitality, Hairdressing, and Woodwork, the school can now boast a newly upgraded Electrical workshop.
“The Salesian Institute Youth Projects extends its sincere appreciation to the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency, The Turkish Diplomatic Missions in South Africa, the Turkish Government, and the National Development Agency for their generous support and unwavering commitment to empowering young individuals through vocational education. Together, they are making a lasting impact on the lives of academically compromised youth, equipping them with the tools and skills they need to construct a brighter future,” concluded Mr Doidge.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Ms Frieda Pehlivan, Communications Manager, Salesian Institute Youth Projects, Phone: 021 425 1450, Email:
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