Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has called on young people to embrace education, innovation and skills development as pathways to opportunity and socio-economic transformation.
Addressing learners, educators, government stakeholders and industry partners at the Future Careers Expo hosted by the iLembe District Municipality in Ndwendwe on Thursday, Dube-Ncube encouraged young people to draw inspiration from the courage and determination of the 1976 generation, as South Africa commemorates Youth Month.
Speaking under the theme: “A Look at the Past for the Benefit of the Future”, Dube-Ncube reflected on the sacrifices made by the youth of 1976 and urged learners to apply the same spirit of courage to shape their futures.
“The youth protesting did not know what the outcome would be. It was a massacre that ended up in the loss of lives. Yet at the end of the day, they conquered. They had a collective goal and while not easy, they managed to see it through.
"The youth of 1976 could not have known the outcome, but they braved on anyway. You do not know the future you, but you can actively imagine it,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Deputy Minister said the Future Careers Expo forms part of government's broader efforts to expand access to information, education and skills development opportunities, particularly in rural and peri-urban communities.
She said the initiative aligns with the objectives of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 and President Cyril Ramaphosa's call for a national skills revolution aimed at preparing young people for the demands of a rapidly changing economy.
According to Dube-Ncube, emerging sectors such as the ocean economy, artificial intelligence, drone technology, renewable energy and the green economy present significant opportunities for future employment and entrepreneurship.
"You still have time to accurately plan for a future that changes the oceans economy. You still have time to plan adequately and research how you see AI making changes in your community.
“The information brought to you today is a right earned through sacrifice and an active participatory democracy. Guard this right by being active in this initiative," she said.
Highlighting the importance of education in addressing unemployment and inequality, the Deputy Minister stressed that qualifications must be complemented by practical skills and workplace readiness.
"Post education, industry will ask what can you do with your qualification and we aim to ensure that your response is not only clear but also evidenced through skills acquisition. That you can compete confidently with your contemporaries globally. The future belongs to those who believe in their dreams,” the Deputy Minister said.
Dube-Ncube also encouraged learners to reject limitations imposed by social and economic circumstances, reminding them that their potential is not determined by their background, gender or location.
“Your potential is woven into the fabric of what makes this country beautiful and exceptional. Much like a marathon, the race in your life is to grab every single opportunity and run with it to the finish.”
The Deputy Minister further highlighted the importance of science, technology, gender equality and climate action, noting that these areas will play a critical role in shaping Africa's future development.
She called on young people to become leaders in driving innovation and addressing challenges facing their communities, particularly through participation in the green economy and South Africa's just energy transition.
Dube-Ncube also reaffirmed government's commitment to expanding access to post-school education and training opportunities, describing education as a powerful instrument of social justice capable of reducing poverty, creating employment, and improving lives.
She thanked municipalities, educational institutions, Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), industry partners and members of the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector for their continued collaboration in advancing youth development and skills programmes.
She encouraged learners to actively participate in initiatives aimed at empowering young people and to use Youth Month as an opportunity to reflect on their purpose and aspirations.
" To the learners of Ndwendwe and to the youth of South Africa, may this month and all its activities bring you closer to your purpose. Celebrate with intention!" Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za
