The City of Cape Town has officially opened the application process for the 2023 Junior City Council (JCC) term. The programme invites learners to explain what changes they would make in their respective communities, should they be selected. The closing date for applications is 21 March 2023.

The application process for the 2023 Junior City Council term has officially opened. This after the JCC's successful reinstatement following Covid-19.

The JCC is a city-run, apolitical programme that aims to introduce high school students in Cape Town to the functions of the City Council. The programme offers young people in grades 10 and 11 the opportunity to:

Become a City ambassador

Develop key leadership skills

Enhance community project management skills

Broaden their knowledge of local government

Cultivate a culture of active citizenry

The programme, which will run over eight months, will include a variety of JCC debate sessions and workshops. Junior Councillors will be able to submit formal submissions to Council during these meetings regarding youth-related issues in the City and the communities they represent. The Junior Council elects a Junior Mayor, Junior Deputy Mayor, Junior Speaker, and Junior Chief Whip.

Learners who wish to participate in the programme need to complete the application form using the following link: https://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/Meet-the-City/city-council/junior-city-council and prepare a two minute speech if shortlisted explaining "How you would change your community if selected as a Junior Councillor".

Interviews will take place during the March/April 2023 school holidays. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an in-person interview, which will take place at the Cape Town Civic Centre, 12 Hertzog Boulevard, Foreshore, Cape Town.

The City encourages all learners in grades 10 and 11 across Cape Town to apply and use this opportunity to help us build a City of Hope.

Source: City Of Cape Town