Some the woodworking students at Salesians.
A Green Point-based organisation which teaches vocational skills to youth at risk, has launched an upgraded woodwork skills centre.
The new, upgraded and expanded centre at the Salesian Institute Youth Projects (SIYP) and as well as a number of new tools, were funded by the Strategic Fuel Fund.
The SIYP serves around 240 youth from in and around Cape Town and gives them the opportunity to gain vocational skills training in a four-year programme.
The students, aged 14 to 18, receive basic education and training in a safe and therapeutic environment dubbed the Learn to Live school of skills.
There are four vocational workshops to choose from - hairdressing, hospitality, electrical and woodwork.
“This grant was an incredible opportunity to upgrade the woodwork workshop and to increase the potential of our programme by giving our learners a space to be proud of as well as a space to nurture and grow their skills,” said Tony Austen, principal of the Learn to Live school of Skills.