This first-ever presentation of this nature to George campus students was aimed at addressing education related issues that the youth are faced with on a daily basis.
The overall message conveyed by Minister Gigaba was that students have to take responsibility for their future. He emphasised that every generation of young people have a mission, and whereas the mission in 1976 was to liberate the youth, the mission of the current generation is to “educate and build our country”. He urged students to make the most of the career opportunities that are already available to them.
The Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Mr Manana, emphasised that students should “learn, learn and learn some more”. “I encourage you to continue learning. If you learn and have education you are able to liberate the bondage of poverty and unemployment”, he added.
It is anticipated that SASCO and the NMMU George Student Council will continue to work with the offices of the ministers to address challenges relating to financial aid and lack of transport in certain areas.
Photograph: HIGH PROFILE GUESTS … Mr T. Mulisha, chairperson of the NMMU George Student Council and members of the student movement, SASCO, welcomed the Minister of Public Enterprises, Mr Malusi Gigaba and the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Mr Maduduzi Manana, to the campus on Youth Day. The ministers discussed education and related issues that affect the youth.
Standing, left to right: NMMU George students, Bongeka Mxothwa, Dwain Samuels, T. Mulisha; Mr Mduduzi Manana, Deputy Minister of Higher Education; students Sipokazi Sopazi, Sandisiwe Ndwalaza, Andisa Msila and Ayanda Luphuwana and the Minister of public Enterprises, Mr Malusi Gigaba.
Front row seated, left to right: Students Benjamin Leshei, Lwando Paraffin and Khumbudzo Mphephu