The Mauritius Council of Social Service (MACOSS), in collaboration with the University of Technology, Mauritius (UTM), invited various Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) on Friday 26 April 2019 at the MACOSS Regional Leadership Centre to participate in the 2019 edition of the CLEn Programme.

YUVA responded positively to the call, along with many other NGOs, including APEDED, Befrienders, APSA and The Mauritius Scouts Association.

Firstly, members of MACOSS introduced participants to the CLEn programme by giving them an overview of the programme and what it consists of. This was followed by a speech by a representative of the University of Mauritius (UTM). She encouraged the students present to engage themselves in social work as much as they can, as this will help them become a good and responsible citizen. Afterwards, each NGO was given the opportunity to briefly introduce their respective organisation to the audience by talking about their methods of work, their aims and objectives, as well as the changes they want to implement. Each and every NGO and association are working, one way or another, towards the betterment of our little Island.

The event ensued with an NGO fair. Students of the University of Technology, Mauritius (UTM) had the chance to visit the stands of the NGOs to learn more about the mission, vision, social cause, functions and opportunities provided by each NGO. This also allowed the students to identify NGOs that they wished to join and lend their support to. Most students had already heard about YUVA and its initiatives. They showed their appreciation for the different activities and projects that YUVA is involved in and were eager to join the organisation in fulfilling its goal of breaking the cycle of poverty and ensuring a bright future of children and young people of Mauritius.

Overall, there was a positive response from the students of the University of Technology, Mauritius (UTM). The CLEn programme gives youngsters and future generation opportunities to get involved in social work. It also helps them to expand their knowledge, to develop as good human beings and citizens, as well as opportunities to contribute to the positive development of their societies.

About CLEn

MACOSS has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Technology, Mauritius on 15 July 2015 to implement the Community Learning and Engagement (CLEn) programme. The programme endeavours to integrate community learning and social responsibility in undergraduate education. It is a field-based initiative which aims at promoting civic engagement in community organisations among undergraduates which will contribute to their intellectual, personal and professional development.

Under this programme, undergraduate students in their first year of studies are required to support NGOs in their operations and perform one or more of the following activities for a period of at least fifteen days:

1. Report Writing.
2. Communication (English and French).
3. Administrative support to the NGO.
4. Accounts Support.
5. IT Related Support.
6. Any other relevant task or activity mutually agreed upon by the student and the mentor.