Mayor Xaba launches state-of-the-art skills hub in Nagina to empower youth and transform communities
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Date: 2025-06-27 17:46:34

Mayor Xaba launches state-of-the-art skills hub in Nagina to empower youth and transform communities

ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
27 JUNE 2025
 
MAYOR XABA LAUNCHES STATE-OF-THE-ART SKILLS HUB IN NAGINA TO EMPOWER YOUTH AND TRANSFORM COMMUNITIES
 
As Youth Month draws to a close, a new era of empowerment, innovation, and hope dawns in Nagina. 
 
Today, 27 June, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba officially opened the Nagina Human Capital Centre of Excellence.
 
The state-of-the-art centre features a fully equipped computer lab with 15 computers, free Wi-Fi, and access to the City’s e-Recruitment Portal which serves as a digital gateway to employment opportunities and career development.
 
This initiative is aimed at addressing youth unemployment, bridging the digital divide, and unlocking the full potential of deprived communities.
 
The facility, located in one of the most socio-economically challenged areas of eThekwini, is more than just a building; it is a symbol of resilience and opportunity.
 
It forms part of a broader network of 30 Centres of Excellence across the Municipality which serve as a catalyst for change, offering young people access to critical resources, training, and digital tools to thrive in a competitive and evolving job market.
 
Plans are underway to roll out these facilities at all Sizakala Centres.
 
Mayor Xaba described this step as one of not just opening a building, but the doors to a better future.
 
“This centre will empower the youth with the skills and knowledge to shape their own destinies and contribute meaningfully to the City’s growth. It is a hub of innovation and a launchpad for the leaders of tomorrow,” he said.
 
Mayor Xaba added that in Nagina, where challenges have often overshadowed opportunity, the City is planting the seeds of progress.
 
“This represents our unwavering commitment to inclusive growth, digital empowerment, and community transformation,” said Mayor Xaba. 
 
He urged residents to safeguard the centre against vandalism and criminal activity.
 
The centre will host a variety of training programmes, including digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and career readiness workshops, all tailored to meet the demands of the modern economy.
 
Sixteen-year-old Precious Mtolo, one of the centre’s first beneficiaries, expressed her excitement, saying the opening of the centre represents a turning point.
 
“We did not have the tools or access to computers and other youth-related services in this community. I finally feel like I have a chance to build a future right here in my own community,” said Mtolo.
 
This initiative reflects the Municipality’s vision to build a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready City.
 
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Communications and Marketing Directorate.