Youth urged to rise to the call

UPSKILLING the youth is key to equipping them to adequately deal with modern challenges.

This was shared by Deputy Speaker of the KZN Legislature, Mmabatho Tembe, at the official opening of the 2025 Youth Parliament.

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“This Parliament is not just a date on the calendar; it is a platform for voices that are often sidelined. It is a space for the youth to express, engage and demand accountability from those entrusted with power,” she said.

Drawing inspiration from the 1976 youth, she emphasised that while today’s youth may no longer face apartheid, they are confronted with battles of poverty, unemployment, unequal education outcomes, and social exclusion.

“Our generation must now rise – not with stones, but with skills. Not with slogans alone, but with strategy. And that begins with transforming how we educate and empower our youth,” she added.

Meanwhile, KZN Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli addressed the 2024/25 Youth Empowerment Fund Business Management Workshop under the theme ‘Skills for a Changing World – Empowering Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation’.

Ntuli announced a re-evaluation of all applications starting soon, and said a team has been selected for the process.

“If any political influence is found, funding will be withdrawn immediately,” he said.

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