IDA Org equips learners from disadvantaged communities with the knowledge, skills, networks and resources to excel in tertiary education. IDA org aims to increase the collective skill level of the population, to grow the national knowledge base, and to replicate success in more communities. A non-profit organisation (established in 2013and formally registered in 2014). While learners enrol at IDA
org when they are the four year program the programme’s success is ultimately determined by the number of learners who finish their degree. Currently there is a high number of students dropping out of Universities. The IDA Org model draws from a large and growing pool of volunteers made up of students (from nearby universities) and local professionals. The organisation’s sustainability is driven by senior learners. South African youth face many obstacles that perpetuate disadvantage. Most township schools produce learners whose academic performance is below grade level. Poor matric results and low awareness of post-school opportunities lead to high numbers of unemployed youth (estimated at over 60% in Khayelitsha). Most learners in township schools do not receive the skills development opportunities afforded their more privileged counterparts in the suburbs, including computer literacy and extra-mural activities. In addition to the difficulties that living in poverty and receiving a sub-standard education brings, many township youth are infected and/or affected by HIV/AIDS. Each of IDA Org programmes address these obstacles in simple yet effective and measurable ways:
Supplementary tutoring and Homework sessions enable learners to improve their grades
Career guidance broadens learners’ awareness of post-school opportunities
Mentoring ensures that learners access these opportunities
Computer literacy and access equips learners with essential skills and information
The Media, Image and Expression programme affords opportunities for learners to express themselves creatively and assertively and build their self-esteem
Health and Leadership programmes ensure HIV/AIDS, nutrition and broader health awareness and voluntary testing provides learners with the information and VCT services they need to manage their health
By participating in these programmes in afternoons after school, on Saturday mornings and during the school holidays, students are empowered to take their futures into their own hands.
