By Edwin Tshivhidzo
Pretoria – Young South Africans, especially those born in 1994, when the country first gained its democracy, are looking forward to a more prosperous South Africa.
The born frees, as they are known, voted for the first time in the 2014 General Elections a few weeks ago, and are looking forward to taking part in the running of the country and contributing to the economy. Most of them can’t wait to join the workforce.
This year, South Africa celebrates 20 years of democracy.
Tshifhiwa Magadzhe, 20, from Limpopo, is one of the born frees attending the Presidential Inauguration at the Union Buildings today.
The second- year Information Technology student at the Tshwane University of Technology told SAnews that she can’t wait to get her Diploma and become part of the workforce.
Asked what democracy means to her, she simply said it meant more opportunities for the previously disadvantaged and a better life for all.
“I have voted so that people’s lives can be changed for the better and so that the country’s economy grows. Democracy also means equal opportunities for all,” Magadzhe said.
Magadzhe said government must create more opportunities for young people so that they too can enjoy democracy and be part of the system.
Twenty-year-old Steven Mason, a second year Administration student from the North West, echoed the same sentiments - that he wants to be part of the economy.
“I am glad that our country offers plenty of opportunities for young people. As young people we are given opportunities to be part of the system,” he said.
Government has created a number of opportunities for young people to establish their own businesses through the Umsobomvu Youth Fund and the National Youth Development Agency.
Many other young people are still looking forward to starting their own businesses and creating job opportunities for other unemployed youth.
Jason Wilkins, a third year Business Management student told SAnews that he is looking forward to starting his own business empire and creating jobs for others.
Wilkins’ wish is for government to create more opportunities for young people.
“Government must take the interest of young people at heart,” he said.
Young people from all walks of life have come out in their numbers to witness the second inauguration of President-elect Jacob Zuma, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
To many, this was their first inauguration.
Around 20 000 members of the public are expected to converge at the Southern Lawns, bussed in from various park-and-ride points in Tshwane. – SAnews.gov.za
