THE NORTHERN Cape Provincial Legislature (NCPL) has launched the NCPL Future Leaders Service-Learning Initiative ahead of the State of the Province Address (Sopa), which will take place at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre on Thursday.

Carmen Gopane, manager of Public Education and Communications at the NCPL, said the pre-public educational programme would provide 130 students from urban and rural Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in the province, as well as Sol Plaatje University, with an interactive learning experience.

“Students will experience a transformative experience in legislative processes, governance and public participation,” she said. “This leadership programme aims to nurture future leaders who can contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s democracy by offering practical exposure to legislative processes, oversight functions, and policy discussions.

“Participants will develop critical skills such as legislative research, report writing, and public speaking, while fostering civic engagement and understanding of governance.”

Gopane said that student-led mock committee meetings would be held at TVET college campuses in Kimberley on Wednesday, along with a round-table discussion at the NCPL on Tuesday.

“Guided by Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs) and supported by NCPL regional liaison officers, researchers, and committee co-ordinators, the committees will conduct oversight visits to various higher education institutions and draft reports for a mock plenary session.”

She added that all participants would be invited to attend the State of the Province Address on Thursday.

“The Northern Cape Provincial Legislature recognises the vital role of youth in shaping South Africa's future. By involving students in governance, the programme seeks to enhance their awareness of democratic processes, develop their leadership potential, and equip them with the skills needed to effect meaningful social change within their communities,” she noted.