The City of Ekurhuleni will on Friday, August 14, launch a Junior City Council formed by 99 Grade 10 and 12 learners from various schools in what is set to be a melting pot to deal with issues affecting residents of Ekurhuleni.
The young councillors will debate issues concerning education, health, social development, sport and recreation, arts and culture, campaigns and fund-raising, environment and safety.
The first sitting of the junior council meeting will be led by the junior speaker of the house, deputy speaker, mayor, deputy mayor, chief whip and PR councillors.
“This is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at increasing the level of patriotism, establish and sustain relations between citizens and elected public representatives, and to further educate citizens of the avenues available to lodge grievances.
“We believe it is through engaging young minds that we can develop and sustain a democratic order, characterised by an active citizenry mindful of its rights and responsibilities,” mayoral spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini, said.
The junior council will govern for two years in order to obtain knowledge of civic affairs and how government operates and is expected to practice multi-racialism, gender parity and consider learners with disabilities.
According to the speaker of council, Clr Patricia Kumalo, the junior council will create an effective liaison between the young people of the City and the city council.
“We want to create a platform where young people can have a voice concerning civic matters and share experiences among themselves, promote leadership among young councillors and develop future leaders who will take pride in being citizens of South Africa,” said Kumalo.
