IEC encourages students to participate in local elections
At the IEC event, the youth questioned the importance of voting, highlighting that they have seen their parents register and vote without seeing any change.
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) hosted an edutainment event at Ehlanzeni TVET College Mbombela Campus to encourage students to register to vote in the upcoming local municipal elections scheduled for the end of this year.
Students were informed about the importance of voting, highlighting some of the challenges that are faced in South Africa.
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IEC officials acknowledged concerns raised by the youth and assured them that through voting, some of their problems would be resolved. These include fast-tracked service delivery of basic essentials such as water, electricity, and job creation at municipal level.
An IEC outreach officer, Victor Kekane, said the best way to encourage students to vote is through entertainment as it is proven to keep them interested in certain topics. Engagement was the order of the day with performances demonstrating some of the challenges that are faced in South Africa, including load shedding, water shedding, and dilapidated road infrastructure.
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Students shared their opinions on the importance of voting, many saying they did not believe voting would make a difference.
“Growing up I have seen my parents taking the initiative and register to vote. Part of me believes that if we continue to vote we might make a difference eventually. Taking the initiative can bring us closer to change,” said Nomcebo Shongwe, a student at the rally.
