The City of Cape Town has announced that applications for the 2025 Junior City Council term are now open. Applications close on 31 December 2024.
About the Cape Town Junior City Council programme
The prestigious, apolitical programme provides learners in Grade 10 and 11 from all over Cape Town with a great opportunity that includes the following:
- Development of their leadership skills
- Positive impact on their community
- Understanding of how local government operates from the inside
- A chance to represent the youth of Cape Town in important decision-making areas
- Building crucial skills like leadership, managing community projects, public speaking, and also advocacy
The programme stretches over a year during which the participants will have the opportunity to engage in various sessions, workshops, and field trips. They will learn how to understand and contribute to the City’s budget, explain the Integrated Development Plan (IDP), lead meaningful community projects, and also tackle issues that matter most to the youth of Cape Town.
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to work alongside peers to develop and implement initiatives that positively impact their communities, and also gain mentorship from City officials who are committed to empowering the next generation of leaders.
Programme Selection criteria
The City of Cape Town uses a thorough and multifaceted approach to evaluate the following key qualities of applicants:
- personal responsibility
- interdependence
- courage
- resilience
- intellectual readiness
The City aims to select learners who embody a broad spectrum of cultures, faiths, and also perspectives from across the City of Cape Town.
Each applicant is evaluated on an individual basis, with the initial screening based solely on age and grade criteria. This ensures an inclusive and merit-based entry into the programme.
“The Junior City Council programme is a testament to our commitment to nurturing young leaders. We believe that by providing the youth with the tools and opportunities to engage with local government, we are building a stronger, more inclusive future for Cape Town.”
Alderman Felicity Purchase, the Speaker of the City Council
How to apply
Applications are open to all Grade 10 and 11 learners for the 2025 academic year. The City will select 50 learners to become Junior Councillors.
To apply, learners must complete the online application form. It is important to note that applications close on 31 December 2024, and applicants should ensure they are in Cape Town from 27 to 31 January 2025 for in-person interviews.
It is also important to note that applicants must bring the following required documents to their interviews:
- Proof of address from the Ward Councillor
- Copy of ID/passport
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