Learn-to-Live School of Skills Takes on the World, And Helps Target 90% Youth Unemployment Reduction by 2030
The Learn-to-Live School of Skills recently made its mark on the global education stage — and in doing so, positioned the Salesian Institute Youth Projects at the forefront of a national movement to tackle youth unemployment. The school was one of only seven South African institutions invited to speak at the first ever virtual World Education Week conference — a global event led by teachers, for teachers, where 100 schools from across the world were selected to share insights on learning in the 21st century. Learn-to-Live presented on their pioneering implementation of project-based learning (PBL) — a methodology that is now being championed by the Department of Basic Education as a national strategy. A National Target Introducing the concept at the conference was Dr Ria de Villiers from the National Department of Basic Education. The Department’s goal is to institutionalise project-based learning in all South African schools by 2022 — with the ambition of reducing youth unemployment by 90% by the year 2030. Learn-to-Live School of Skills is one of just a few schools currently participating in the pilot phase of this project — a remarkable recognition of the work being done at 2 Somerset Road, Green Point. Why Project-Based Learning Works The primary purpose behind project-based learning is that it encourages learners to think independently, communicate with clarity, manage impulsivity, take responsible actions, and apply past knowledge to new experiences as they explore real-world challenges in a dynamic classroom environment. The goal is the effective creation of better work habits and improved attitudes towards learning — resulting in the long-term retention of skills. Project-based learning unlocks 21st century competencies and solution-seeking mindsets, helping young people become employable, engaged, and entrepreneurial. What Our CEO Said Welcoming viewers to the talk, Fr Pat Naughton, then CEO of the Salesian Institute Youth Projects, spoke about what project-based learning has meant for their students. “I was convinced PBL was what we were looking for — and already our learners’ lives have been transformed. Discipline and attendance have improved and learning is taking place in a joyful ethos.” Watch The Full Presentation You can watch the full Learn-to-Live School of Skills presentation on our YouTube channel:👉 Watch Here Read the original article as featured on SA Good News:👉 Target: Reducing Youth Unemployment by 90% in Year 2030