Minister Mackenzie calls for support for ‘Lights On After School’ 2024

It is one week to go until global ‘Lights On After School’ Day, which will be celebrated on 24 October 2024 to highlight the vital role played by After School Programmes (ASPs) in equipping learners to thrive.

Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie, encourages widespread support for this year’s campaign, themed ‘Building Strong Foundations.’ It emphasises the power of ASPs to future-proof young people for employment by supporting their academic, social, emotional and physical wellbeing.

Here’s how you can show your support:

• Volunteer your time, skills, or resources to an After School Programme.

• Share stories about how ASPs make a difference in the lives of learners in your community.

• Light up social media on 24 October by adding the ‘Lights On’ light bulb to your profile pictures and sharing your activities with the hashtags #LightsOnAfterSchool and #AfterSchoolSA.

Minister Mackenzie said, “After School Programmes are critical, whether they are run by government, civil society or other organisations. They address challenges of mental health, safety, and academic catch-up. These programmes allow learners to explore their passions, stay curious and active, and connect with positive peer networks, while also creating work and service opportunities for thousands of young people.”

ASPs create safe spaces for learners after school hours, especially in under-resourced communities. Research shows that learners who regularly participate in ASPs have improved academic performance, increased resilience, and they develop life skills such as leadership and problem-solving.

YearBeyond, a flagship Youth in Service programme of the Western Cape Government, is helping build a brighter future for young South Africans by providing youth with opportunities to serve as mentors to learners in ASPs. This not only benefits learners but also helps youth develop essential skills for the job market and beyond.

MOD Centres (Mass Participation; Opportunity and Access; Development and Growth), another key initiative of the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), provide learners across the province with daily access to sports, arts, and cultural activities. With over 180 centres, the MOD Programme provides a strong foundation for learners, preparing them for success in school and in life.

The Lights On After School campaign is promoted in South Africa by The Learning Trust and supported by the DCAS. It was started by the US-based Afterschool Alliance.

For more information about 'Lights On After School': https://www.thelearningtrust.org/lights-on-after-school/

For more information about YearBeyond: https://www.yearbeyond.org/