By Mupiri Matthias
Windhoek, 19 July. The KAYEC Youth Development Program (KYD) is a transformative after-school program designed to empower Namibian youth. Established in Windhoek in 2004, and later extended to Otjiwarongo in 2006, KYD has been dedicated to uplifting underprivileged adolescents who face various challenges in their academic and emotional journey. In 2010, it transitioned from the International Youth Award to the KAYEC Youth Development Program (KYDP).
KYD has grown steadily over the years and expanded its reach to new locations, including Outjo, Okahandja, Windhoek, Rundu, and more. The program’s fundamental goal is to support and assist disadvantaged young learners who might otherwise drop out of school due to a lack of guidance from schools or parents.
With the generous support of current donors like the FirstRand Foundation/FNB, KYD has been able to impact numerous lives. Their financial contributions have enabled KYD to educate more youths on crucial topics such as teenage pregnancy and provide academic assistance and counseling for registered participants.
Working alongside the Ministry of Gender, the program also conducts seminars to address issues related to gender-based violence, alcohol, and drugs, fostering positive change in both in-school and out-of-school adolescents.
At the Rundu Center, supported by FirstRand Foundation/FNB, KYD focuses on reducing teen pregnancy in Kavango, achieving zero school dropouts for registered participants, and enhancing academic achievements. The center offers a range of activities, including life skills workshops, Boys and Girls clubs, monthly youth sessions, Grassroot Soccer, English and Mathematics tutoring, gardening, camping, leadership training, and sports.
KYD’s unwavering commitment is to see underprivileged children excel in their education and realize their full potential. Notable success stories include producing leaders like Hon. Emma Theophilus, the Deputy Minister of ICT, who herself emerged from the Windhoek center.
With 190 children registered in the Rundu program alone, the demand for KYD speaks to its effectiveness. Partnering with Conscious Mind Training Institute, the program initiated “SPEAK TO THE YOUTH,” an initiative that has engaged over 900 young minds since April 2022, addressing pertinent social issues.
Reports indicate that the program has significantly improved the academic performance of enrolled children, and thanks to FirstRand Foundation/FNB’s support, no adolescent girl has experienced pregnancy during their participation. Many KYD participants have successfully graduated from university, now contributing to society as teachers, engineers, journalists, and more.
To join this vital program, interested individuals can apply online through the AKWYEC website under the “After School” section or visit the offices in Rundu, Otjiwarongo, or Windhoek to speak with a Youth officer. Enrolling is straightforward, requiring the latest school report card, a birth certificate, a copy of a parent’s ID, and a nominal N$10.00 application fee. Upon successful enrollment, participants may have access to leadership training camps, ARH seminars, and free tutoring sessions with qualified graduates.
KYD places the utmost importance on child safety, with all volunteers and staff members adhering to a child protection policy, and presenting police clearances.
Despite budget constraints, KYD continues to make a significant impact, thanks to the dedication of one (1) youth officer in Rundu, three (3) in Otjiwarongo, and one (1) program coordinator in Windhoek, along with a team of volunteers.
The KAYEC Youth Development Program’s success in the Kavango region, especially in Rundu, is a testament to its commitment to transforming young lives. Partnerships with various ministries and organizations contribute to the program’s effectiveness and impact.
KYD expresses gratitude to FirstRand Foundation/FNB for their unwavering support and hopes for additional corporate partnerships to extend their reach to rural regions in Kavango. The vision of establishing their facility in Rundu is one they hope to achieve with continued collaboration.
For those eager to get involved, please visit the KYD website at www.kayec.org or contact their office. KYD offers a welcoming second home for children, providing a nurturing environment to shape a brighter future.- Namibia Daily News
Team Building and leadership camps
Academic support for all grade
Monthly Refreshments for kids
Annual Financial Literacy Workshops for Parents done by Financial Literacy Initiative (FLI)
Gardening, Food for life
BMX competitions ( The only one in Kavango Region)
Annual Pluges from our Main donor, that was for 2021-2022, and 2022-2023 is N$305 000.00, they have give over 1mil in the past years
BMX national competitions
Motivational speeches
