NYDA partners with PAP and APRM to co-host successful Development and Democracy Dialogue in Midrand
The dialogue focused on the 30-year journey of democracy in our neighbouring country, its significance for SA and other African nations, and a retrospective look at their achievements during this period.
“Fight for your space if you must. There is no reward in sitting down and keeping quiet. As young people, we have to decide what the future looks like.”
This statement was made by Karabo Mohale, the deputy chairperson of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) during the recent Development and Democracy Dialogue hosted at the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) headquarters in Midrand.
Read more: Local entrepreneur enrols in NYDA programme to boost his business
The NYDA collaborated with the Africa Peer Review Mechanism and PAP on April 30 to co-host the inter-generational dialogue, in celebration of South Africa’s 30th anniversary of democracy.
This commemoration aimed to raise awareness among young people about their responsibilities in policy engagement, civic education, community and nation-building.
The dialogue was an opportunity for youth to recognise their pivotal role in advancing the development and democratic governance of South Africa.
Key speakers at this inter-generational important dialogue included the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Dr Naledi Pandor; Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola; Minister in the Presidency for Planning Maropene Ramokgopa; and Namibian Sports Minister, Dr Emma Kantema, to name a few.
By showcasing success stories, role models, and opportunities for participation, the dialogue empowered young minds to take ownership of their future and contribute to positive change.
Pandor highlighted that we need all young people and their energy to build the new dawn of Africa.
“You must participate in the upcoming elections. No transition takes place in three decades fully, it merely transitions. Own your democracy by participating in it, and not by excluding yourself. Go and put your cross. That is what was fought for,” Pandor told attendees.
Also read: NYDA launches WhatsApp chatbot and webchat to engage with youth easily
Andre Nzapayeke, ambassador of the Central African Republic, commended the NYDA for taking into account the aspirations of SA youth.
Thulani Chefuta, a Proudly SA board member, said if the challenges of youth unemployment were not addressed, there was no democracy we could talk about in the future.
“We need to invest in the lives of young people and then draw a demographic dividend. You cannot draw a demographic dividend where you have not invested. We must promote youth participation in democracy and good governance. Young people should vote and be voted for,” Chefuta said.
In his remarks, Lamola said the creativity of the youth must be unleashed.
“We live in a country that is alive with possibilities. We have the assistance of the solidarity of the international community. As a young generation, we should not be apologetic about the role we should be playing in our countries,” said Lamola.
He concluded by quoting the Greek proverb: ‘A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they shall never sit’.
Related article: NYDA sends youth to Namibia for skills development
