SIPHELELE NKETO
THE lack of job opportunities for the youth of Kokstad were among the challenges raised at a one-day youth dialogue organised by the Democratic Alliance (DA) Sisonke region last Sunday, July 6.
The dialogue at St Anthony’s Hall in Kokstad had youth leaders and stakeholders exploring solutions and offered the youth a platform to voice their challenges, share innovative ideas and interact directly with leaders. It was also a way for the youth to engage in critical conversations around the high levels of unemployment, the importance of entrepreneurship and the urgent need to strengthen skills development in communities.
The high crime rate, unemployment and financial exclusion of students were highlighted as major concerns affecting young people in Kokstad. DA Youth KZN provincial executive committee member Mawande Jaku said that the party will consolidate a report and establish investigations into the allegations of nepotism against municipalities.
“We are painfully aware that the youth of South Africa, particularly in rural towns like Kokstad, are confronted with rising unemployment rates, failing schools, lack of access to information, and the absence of real opportunities. We are not here simply to talk, but to unlock the full potential of the youth of Kokstad and the greater Sisonke district,” said Jaku.
Other key speakers were DA MP Shara Singh who addressed the youth on empowerment strategies, Sthabelo Ntshangase, the DA youth provincial chairperson who focused on youth empowerment and Ndiphiwe Olayi, the acting national DA youth leader who spoke about the national youth perspective.
