Youth raise their voice on serious issues

“Giving young people an opportunity to reflect on South Africa.” This was the central theme of the Youth Day panel discussion held by the Johannesburg City Library. The discussion featured young people who debated on relevant issues affecting the country.

Topics discussed included issues of education, the economy, health and politics in South Africa’s democracy.

Ben Ramela, assistant director of the library, highlighted the importance of having an event of this nature, especially during youth month. “Such discussions allow young South Africans to be active participants and to have their say,” he said.

Kgomotso Modise was one of the speakers and she said that young people needed to ask questions about the state of education in the country. “Today the focus is on what has been done right or wrong by the government in the past 20 years,” she said. She added that the country is plagued by the issue of inequality which also affected job opportunities.

Another speaker, Khanyisile Ngema, added that young people needed to create a movement calling for a better education system and one that produces leaders. She added that South Africa is a “traumatised nation” and in need of leaders.

Mandlenkosi Mdiza added that today’s struggle was for a quality education and to bridge the gap between the rich and poor.

While some of the speakers criticised the current education system, speakers such as Mukhetwa Tshisikule, opted to celebrate the milestones achieved in the past 20 years.

She added that pointing fingers and placing blame would not help build the nation; rather people should play their part in improving the country.

“We need to stand up as young people and be the leaders South Africa needs at this stage,” she added.

One thing all the speakers agreed on was the need for more involvement by the youth, and the need to strive for a better education, which would better equip young people.

The panel discussion took place at the Johannesburg City Library on 12 June and included other young speakers like Thabo Seatlholo and Lindokuhle Mhanga.

Also present at the panel discussion was author Sandile Memela who came to launch his book Zenzele: Young, Gifted and Free.