By: Puleng Maphisa – 09 February 2024

The Brunstad Christian Church (BCC) South Africa is deeply involved in various programs aimed at providing holistic support to people. From offering accommodation and pastoral care to conducting Bible studies, the church ensures that individuals engaged in these programs receive a comprehensive and enriching experience. Notably, the church places a strong emphasis on the development of youth within its community.

One of the flagship initiatives spearheaded by BCC South Africa is the Christian Youth Development Program (CYDP), a dynamic youth exchange program designed to host young adults in South Africa for a limited period, spanning one year. The primary objective of CYDP is to equip these young adults with both spiritual (soft skills) and practical (hard skills) knowledge, fostering personal growth and empowering them to make positive contributions within their local communities.

In a significant stride towards realizing this vision, a collaborative effort has been established between BCC South Africa’s CYDP and Vaal University of Technology (VUT). The partnership culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) in July 2023, paving the way for the development and launch of the Small Business Management and Community Development Program (SBMCDP) in February 2024. A program Lauch ceremony was held on 7 February 2024 at the Stephanopark Conference Centre in Vanderbijlpark. The event was attended by the first group of 20 program participants, delegates from VUT and BCC, embassy representatives and the Executive Mayor of Emfuleni Local Municipality, CLLR Sipho Radebe.

Offered by the Faculty of Management Sciences at VUT, the SBMCDP aims to provide skilful training to BCC youth, empowering them to initiate and manage their own businesses. The short learning program covers a range of modules, including entrepreneurship, small business financial skills, marketing, logistics and transportation, as well as introductions to project and people management.

According to Prof Chengedzai Mafini, the Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, the SBMCDP will complement the soft and hard skills acquired by BCC youth through the CYDP. Upon successful completion of all modules, participants will be awarded a certificate during a graduation ceremony, recognising and honouring their dedication and accomplishments.

Prof Maggie Linington, amidst the mist of anticipation, expressed VUT’s commitment to the CYDP for the next five years. The partnership is expected to yield positive outcomes, with the inaugural group of participants hailing from Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. This collaboration represents a promising venture that aligns with the shared vision of BCC South Africa and VUT in nurturing and developing the potential of youth for a brighter future.