Pretoria - The Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Elizabeth Thabethe, has urged Limpopo learners she hosted for lunch to arm themselves with education in order to free themselves from the clutches of poverty, unemployment and inequality.
“This country has changed so much since the dawn of democracy, that opportunities available for our young people, particularly girls, are unlimited.
“But for you to be able to grab these opportunities and contribute actively and meaningfully in the transformation and development of this country, you need to arm yourself with education,” Deputy Minister Thabethe told the 30 girl learners from John Mbhedhle in Xihosana village, Photani in Malamulele and Rhabela in Nhombelani village in Polokwane on Friday.
The deputy minister told the learners that once they have equipped themselves with the necessary knowledge, information and skills, they can transform their world.
“The contribution that you can make in your family and community after arming yourself with education is immeasurable. Education will allow you to break the vicious circle of poverty and become an agent of change,” she said.
The luncheon was part of the Department of Trade and Industry’s Techno-girls Programme, which introduces young girls to study opportunities and the multitudes of career opportunities that exist in various sectors of the economy they can pursue.
It is also aimed at empowering girl learners through technology and entrepreneurship.
Deputy Minister Thabethe further impressed upon the learners the importance of focusing on nurturing their academic and entrepreneurial skills, saying South Africa’s women were making their mark in the business world but more are still required. – SAnews.gov.za
