Wings of Tomorrow, Ennerdale and Cape Town

South Africa has a young population, with more than 63% aged between 15 and 34. The country struggles with high youth unemployment (50.47% in 2023), unequal economic development and major social challenges such as poverty, unemployment and limited access to education. One particular problem is the high school dropout rate: around 50% of children do not finish school. Children and young people from disadvantaged families are particularly at risk of dropping out of school due to poverty or family problems or ending up in precarious jobs without an education. COVID-19 has exacerbated these challenges, as many students did not have sufficient digital infrastructure for distance learning during the pandemic.

The “Wings of Tomorrow” project aims to sustainably improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people in South Africa through targeted measures. The first priority is to ensure schooling for 200 children and young people aged 13 to 18 who are cared for in two children’s villages (Ennerdale and Cape Town). To ensure that these pupils stay in school and successfully complete secondary school, they are provided with important resources such as school materials, uniforms and transportation. This is intended to prevent them from dropping out of school and open up long-term prospects.

A second focus of the project is to promote the employability of 200 young adults between the ages of 18 and 34. The plan is to provide comprehensive vocational training in areas such as digital skills, technical skills (e.g. welding and plumbing training) and short-term qualifications such as forklift or safety certificates. In addition, workshops on application skills (CV, job interviews) and soft skills training are organized. In addition, participants receive individual support through mentoring programs, including from Lufthansa employees, to increase their chances on the job market and make it easier for them to find permanent employment.

A third focus is on improving living conditions in the children’s villages. The planned measures include renovations to homes, playgrounds, sports areas and digital learning spaces, as well as the establishment of vegetable gardens to increase food security. In addition, solar panels are to be installed and rainwater collection systems set up to ensure access to renewable energy and clean water. These measures will help to create a safe and supportive environment in which children and young people can grow up healthy and reach their full potential.

Your donation will help us to provide school resources for 200 students and vocational training for up to 100 young adults each year.