Category: South Africa Government

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Cape Town carries out temp repairs on potholes

Source: Government of South Africa

Officials from the City of Cape Town have undertaken temporary pothole repairs in Gugulethu, Manenberg and Newlands, as wet conditions persist.

“During winter, and as a result of heavy and ongoing rains, water seeps into cracks on the road surface. These cracks widen, and turn into potholes that damage tyres and cause accidents. 

“Permanent pothole repairs require dry, warm conditions, thus during the wet months, we have to do cold mix asphalt repairs. 

“In summer, we will return to monitor the performance of the cold mix and do permanent repairs with hot mix asphalts, where needed,” said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Rob Quintas.

READ | Western Cape concerned at 23 deaths on province’s roads in one week

Quintas joined the city’s Roads Infrastructure Management team this week as they embarked on temporary pothole repairs.

Excessive mountain run-off has also led to flooding in some areas. In Gugulethu and Manenberg, the city found that illegal dumping of household items into stormwater drains increased the severity of flooding, as the drains were blocked.

“Another issue is illegal outlets or the dumping of greywater which contains chemicals that damage road surfaces and causes potholes. This greywater contains detergents and comes from baths, clothes, dishes and car washing. 

“Our teams are working hard to clear blocked drains and keep roads safe this winter, but we need your help. 

“Please dispose of greywater properly through the sewer system so it can be treated and re-used, and keep it off our road surfaces. Together, we can reduce winter flooding and prevent the forming of new potholes,” said Quintas.

Residents are encouraged to report incidents of flooding and related issues to the city’s call centre at 0860 103 089, via the City App, or alternatively via email on transport.info@capetown.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

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President Ramaphosa calls for citizen-led national dialogue

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has convened the inaugural meeting of the Eminent Persons Group to kickstart a critical national dialogue aimed at addressing South Africa’s persistent challenges 31 years after democracy.

Speaking at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Friday, President Ramaphosa candidly acknowledged the country’s ongoing struggles. 

“There can be no doubt that we have begun to transform our society and our economy. And yet, the vestiges of our apartheid past remain,” he said, pointing to persistent issues of inequality, poverty and unemployment that continue to plague the nation.

“Our economy has not been growing, and the number of unemployed people has been rising.” 

He also acknowledged the deterioration in governance, a decline in the delivery of services, and widespread corruption and wastage of public resources.

“At the same time, we have seen an increasing disengagement by many people from the democratic process, as witnessed by the turnout in the May 2024 elections.” 

According to the country’s Commander-in-Chief, the national dialogue represents a bold attempt to unite South Africans across political, cultural, and social divides. 

READ | National Convention to set agenda for the National Dialogue

President Ramaphosa used Friday’s meeting to call for a process that is inclusive and citizen-led.

“It cannot be partisan. It cannot favour one group or perspective over any other.

“It needs to be citizen-led, and the outcomes need to reflect the collective views of the South African people.”

The President said the national dialogue represents a strategic effort to mobilise South Africans and restore the country’s developmental trajectory. 

“The national dialogue is neither government-driven nor directed,” President Ramaphosa stressed, underlining the importance of genuine public participation.

“Citizens must be able to freely and fully participate in the national dialogue as individuals, in organised formations, and through representative bodies.

“That is why the Eminent Persons Group is so important.” 

Highlighting the nation’s rich tradition of collaborative problem-solving, President Ramaphosa noted that “dialoguing is not a new phenomenon to South Africans”. 

He also pointed to previous successful national conversations like drafting the Constitution, the National Peace Accord, and the country’s response to the devastating COVID-19 pandemic. 

However, the President emphasised that the dialogue is not intended to replace existing democratic processes. 

Instead, President Ramaphosa pointed out that it aims to create a social compact that outlines clear commitments for government, political parties, business, labour, civil society, and citizens. 

President Ramaphosa stated that a carefully selected Eminent Persons Group will champion the dialogue, tasked with ensuring its authenticity and effectiveness. 

He challenged these leaders to be critical guardians of the process, not mere cheerleaders.

“We are asking you, Eminent Persons, to be champions of the national dialogue, not cheerleaders.

“We expect that you will critically consider the progress and the conduct of the national dialogue, and provide advice where correction is required.

“If there is confusion or misunderstanding, or disarray, we ask you to help correct it. If there are groups that seek to commandeer the process, we ask that you alert us.” 

Strengthening social cohesion

The First Citizen announced that the first national convention is scheduled for August, with the hopes of generating a collective vision for South Africa’s future. 

“South Africans want to be heard, they want to participate; they want to be included in whatever process is meant to improve their lives.”

With scepticism and political tensions already emerging, President Ramaphosa believes that the success of this national dialogue remains to be seen. 

“We have already been confronted by the challenge of misinformation and misrepresentation, whether on the cost of the national dialogue or on who is running it.

“But that should not distract us from the work we have to do to give a platform to the millions of voices in our country, so that they may be heard and so that they may be counted.

“We should not fear criticism. We should welcome it.”

Despite criticism, the President strongly believes this platform represents a potentially crucial step in addressing the country’s deep-seated challenges. – SAnews.gov.za

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Opening remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa to the meeting with the National Dialogue Eminent Persons Group, Union Buildings, Pretoria

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Paul Mashatile,
Members of the Eminent Persons Group,
Members of the National Dialogue Inter-Ministerial Committee,
Chairperson of the National Dialogue Preparatory Task Team, Mr Nkosinathi Biko,
Executive Director of NEDLAC, Mr Makhukhu Mampuru,
Colleagues and friends,

It is an honour to welcome you all to the Union Buildings for this inaugural meeting of the National Dialogue Eminent Persons Group.

On behalf of all South Africans, I thank you – the members of the Eminent Persons Group – for agreeing to take on the responsibility of supporting and guiding this historic initiative.

Over the course of the last 31 years, our country has made important progress in forging a united, democratic and just nation.

The values, precepts and rights contained in our democratic Constitution are firmly embedded in our society. We have robust institutions, a free media and an active civil society.

We have made significant advances in expanding opportunities and access to housing, land, basic services, education and health care.

There can be no doubt that we have begun to transform our society and our economy.

And yet, the vestiges of our apartheid past remain. 

Inequality, poverty, unemployment, violence and social discord affect the lives of millions of South Africans and hold back our country’s progress.

Our economy has not been growing and the number of unemployed people has been rising.

In many areas, we have seen a deterioration in governance, a decline in the delivery of services and widespread corruption and wastage of public resources.

At the same time, we have seen an increasing disengagement by many people from the democratic process, as witnessed by the turnout in the May 2024 elections.

The National Dialogue is an opportunity to mobilise South Africans to address these challenges and restore our country to the path of transformation, development and progress.

It is an opportunity to build on the achievements of the last three decades by defining a shared vision and a common programme to take the country forward.

The National Dialogue draws on a rich tradition of discussion, debate and united action.

At critical moments in our history, we have come together as a people to confront our difficulties and find solutions to our problems.

From the Freedom Charter to the drafting of our democratic Constitution, from the National Peace Accord to our response to the devastating COVID pandemic, South Africans have pursued dialogue, cooperation and partnership.

Our diversity is our strength.

We are a diverse people, with different cultures, languages, political traditions and viewpoints.

While this diversity makes for robust and often noisy debate, it does mean that we have a wealth of experiences and perspectives on which to draw.

The National Dialogue seeks to provide a platform for this richness of ideas to be brought to bear on the challenges we face.

The National Dialogue does not displace the democratic processes mandated by our Constitution. 

Its outcomes cannot supercede the electoral mandates that parties carry into Parliament and the Executive.

But it can deliver a social compact that outlines clear commitments and responsibilities for different stakeholders, Government, political parties, business, labour, civil society, communities and individual citizens.

The task that we have is to ensure that the outcomes of the National Dialogue can be institutionalised in a manner thats informs and guides the direction our country takes.

We have been clear that this dialogue must be as inclusive as possible.

It cannot be partisan. It cannot favour one group or perspective over any other.

It needs to be citizen-led and the outcomes need to reflect the collective views of the South African people.

While the Head of State has a constitutional mandate to convene a National Dialogue and while Government should use its capacity and resources to support and facilitate this process, the National Dialogue is neither Government driven nor directed.

Citizens must be able to freely and fully participate in the National Dialogue as individuals, in organised formations and through representative bodies.

That is why the Eminent Persons Group is so important.

It brings together prominent and respected individuals from across society, from many walks of life and many fields of endeavour.

As Eminent Persons, you are not being asked to represent any particular constituency or organisation. 

Rather, you are being called upon to use your experience, acumen and energy to give South Africans confidence that participation in the National Dialogue can help to advance their interests and secure their future.

We are asking you Eminent Persons to be champions of the National Dialogue, not cheerleaders.

We expect that you will critically consider the progress and the conduct of the National Dialogue, and provide advice where correction is required.

If there are people being left out, we ask you to raise it.

If there is confusion or misunderstanding or disarray, we ask you to help correct it.

If there are groups that seek to commandeer the process, we ask that you alert us.

We can expect that the National Dialogue process will be contested, that it may be used to score political points, or to advance particular interests.

We should not be surprised if there is scepticism or disinterest from some quarters.

We have already been confronted by the challenge of misinformation and misrepresentation, whether on the cost of the National Dialogue or on who is running it.

But that should not distract us from the work we have to do to give a platform to the millions of voices in our country, so that they may be heard and so that they may be counted.

We should not fear criticism. We should welcome it.

Criticism is a signal that South Africans care about the country and are invested in its future. Most critics want a National Dialogue that is effective and inclusive.

Dissenting voices make the debate richer and should make the outcomes more robust and meaningful.

This meeting marks the start of the work of the Eminent Persons Group, work that promises to be both challenging and rewarding.

As the Eminent Persons Group comes to understand its role and set out its tasks, we must recognise and appreciate the long road and the hard work that has brought us to this point.

Since a number of South Africans and former President Thabo Mbeki made a call for a National Dialogue in April last year, this call has been taken up by people and formations from across society.

The convening of a National Dialogue was endorsed by the ten political parties that constitute the Government of National Unity in their Statement of Intent and is incorporated into Government’s Medium Term Development Plan.

Over the course of several months, the group of Foundations named for eminent stalwarts, working together with several civil society organisations, took an initiative to start advocating and mobilising for the National Dialogue.

This work has been fundamental to the conceptualisation and design of the National Dialogue. It now finds organisational expression in the Preparatory Task Team, which brings together the Foundations, other civil society formations and The Presidency to make the practical arrangements for the first National Convention in August.

Today’s meeting is an opportunity for the Eminent Persons to be briefed more fully on the National Dialogue, on the role of the Eminent Persons Group and on preparations for the first National Convention.

Importantly, it is an opportunity for the Eminent Persons to ask questions and to share their reflections on the National Dialogue.

Once again, I welcome you to this meeting, I thank you for taking on this important responsibility and wish you well for the work ahead.

I thank you.

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Basic Education to set up advisory body 

Source: Government of South Africa

Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube is set to constitute an advisory body that will advise her on issues including the progression and promotion requirements as well as school resourcing.

“In the coming weeks I will be constituting an advisory body, the National Education and Training Council, to advise me on matters including school resourcing, teacher workloads and progression and promotion requirements.

“Whether the pass mark should be 30, 40 or 50% in which subjects must be subjected to a well-researched process of experts. We must be responsible with the curriculum of our children,” she said in Parliament.

Tabling the Department of Basic Education’s (DBE) Budget Vote on Thursday, the Minister said the budget is a signal of continued commitment to targeted investments that close gaps and unlock every learner’s potential.

This as the DBE received a total budget of over R35 billion – an increase of over 8% from last year.

With Early Childhood Development (ECD) being part of the department’s five key priorities, the ECD Conditional Grant increases to over R1.7 billion; with over R230 million allocated to an ECD Nutrition Pilot and R162 million set aside for ECD infrastructure.
“Our goal is clear: every child must enter Grade R ready to learn in all respects. Our strategy centres on foundational learning – ensuring all children can read and calculate by age ten.”

Meanwhile, over R4.6 billion has been allocated to Curriculum Policy Support and Monitoring – an increase of over 14% enabling national oversight, teacher support and curriculum delivery.

The department’s R1.2 billion Workbook Programme will continue to provide quality learning materials from Grades R to 9 — including Braille and adaptive formats.

“While workbooks support teaching and learning, they are not substitutes for quality teaching. R57 million over the medium term will support learners who are not being taught in their mother-tongue through the rollout of mother-tongued based bilingual education.
“Our message is simple: reading is non-negotiable, and the Foundation Phase is where the battle for equity and excellence must be won.”
Additionally, the department is building an inclusive system that removes barriers to learning for learners with diverse education needs.
It will continue to: 
•    support full-service and special schools through the Inclusive Education Conditional Grant;
•    and monitoring provincial spending on assistive devices, transport and teacher aides.

Investing in teachers

At the same time, district teams are being strengthened to offer diagnostic support with the department investing over R1.8 billion in teacher training, mentorship and leadership.

“The Funza Lushaka bursary scheme will fund over 9,000 students focused on priority subjects and Foundation Phase education. Recruitment will prioritise candidates willing to teach in rural and high-need areas.

“Teachers are the single most important in-school resource influencing learning outcomes. We must continue to support and professionalise them.”

Infrastructure and nutrition

On school infrastructure, R15.3 billion Education Infrastructure Grant (EIG) will be used by provinces to eliminate pit toilets, expand classrooms and repair schools.

“We’ve made progress on school infrastructure and safety, completing 97% of sanitation projects under the SAFE initiative (as of today), and supporting provinces to eradicate the remaining unsafe sanitation facilities,” said Gwarube.

She added that over nine million learners rely on the school nutrition programme.

“R10 billion will feed over nine million learners daily while we’re improving menus, delivery and local sourcing. This budget reflects our constitutional duty and belief in education as the most powerful lever for transformation.

“We are reviewing the provincial school nutrition models to improve efficiency, financial management, and the impact of this programme. Every day, 9.7 million learners depend on this programme for a meal, and we cannot afford to fail them.”

BELA Act 

The Minister said the DBE has actively supported the sector in implementing the BELA Act, which came into effect on 24 December 2024.

The Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act which amends sections of the South African Schools Act of 1996 (SASA) and the Employment of Educators Act, 1998 (EEA) to account for developments in the education landscape since the enactment of the original legislation.

“This includes training of provincial officials, interim guidelines and an extensive suite of draft regulations. 
“The first two regulations, focused on admissions and capacity, will be published in the coming weeks for public comment, with further regulations to follow,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za

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SA to host second G20 environment and climate meeting

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa, through the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), will host the second technical meeting of the Group of 20 (G20) Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) next week.

The meeting will be held from 14-18 18 July 2025, at Kruger National Park (KNP) in Skukuza, Mpumalanga.

The ECSWG will facilitate high-level discussions on various critical topics, including biodiversity and conservation, climate change, land degradation, desertification and drought, chemicals and waste management, air quality, and ocean and coastal issues.

According to the department, this meeting will build on the progress made at the first virtual ECSWG meeting held in March and will focus on deepening collaboration within the priorities of the G20 ECSWG.

READ | G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group first meeting concluded

The DFFE is coordinating the ECSWG, ensuring alignment with South Africa’s policy priorities and global sustainability commitments. 

The key activities focused on promoting global cooperation for environmental sustainability. 

This includes leading three ECSWG meetings, integrating sustainability discussions within G20 Working Groups, and collaborating with stakeholders and member states to achieve actionable results in climate finance, biodiversity, pollution management, and ocean governance.

The meeting at the KNP forms part of a series of three ECSWG engagements hosted by South Africa during its G20 Presidency. 
The meeting will bring together over 250 delegates, including representatives from G20 member states, invited countries, international organisations, government officials, and the media.

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, will launch G20 legacy projects at the second technical meeting of the ECSWG.

The launch of the G20 legacy project, Rhino Renaissance Campaign, will demonstrate conservation efforts in fighting wildlife crime. 

This will include a live demonstration of the dehorning of rhino process to be administered by the world-acclaimed South African National Parks Veterinary Services in the presence of the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, and a selected group of delegates.   

The leaders will also embark on the G20 tree planting activity, a symbolic tree planting ceremony of 20 trees, one for each G20 member, outside the Nombolo Mdluli Conference Centre. 

“This initiative forms part of South Africa’s National Greening Programme, which aims to plant 10 million trees over five years. It is a bold step toward addressing the Presidential imperatives on greening,” the statement read. 

The leaders will also announce the school essay winners. – SAnews.gov.za

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Utility provides feedback on sale of Eskom Finance Company

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, July 11, 2025

Eskom and African Bank have signed agreements for the sale of Eskom Finance Company SOC Limited.

“As announced in the Stock Exchange News Service (SENS) notice on 5 December 2024, Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd accepted a binding offer from African Bank Limited (African Bank) for the acquisition of Eskom Finance Company SOC Limited (EFC) staff home loan portfolio, related assets, and Eskom’s stake in Nqaba Finance 1 (RF) Limited (the Disposal).

“The parties have now signed the sale agreements, satisfying a key condition of the transaction, along with several other preliminary requirements,” said Eskom.

In December, the parties were in the process of concluding a sale and purchase agreement with the disposal being subject to various conditions precedent, including board and regulatory approvals.

In an update on Thursday, the power utility said the milestone will see it and African Bank proceed to submit the necessary filings to the Competition Commission for regulatory approval.

“Finalising the sale agreements marks a significant step in Eskom’s journey to streamline operations and focus on its core mandate. This transaction not only supports our strategic goals but also fulfils one of the conditions set by the National Treasury under the debt relief programme, which requires the disposal of non-core assets.

“We appreciate the constructive engagement with African Bank and remain committed to ensuring a smooth transition that delivers value to our stakeholders,” said Eskom’s Chief Financial Officer, Calib Cassim.

Eskom said it remains committed to transparent communication and will continue to update stakeholders as the transaction progresses. –SAnews.gov.za

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Ramokgopa to host G20 meetings focusing on global development

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, July 11, 2025

The Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, will host the fourth Group of 20 (G20) Development Working Group (DWG) meeting and the G20 Ministerial meeting on development from 20 – 25 July 2025 at Skukuza Lodge in the Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga.

This event will take place under South Africa’s G20 Presidency, focusing on the theme: “Solidarity, Sustainability, and Equality“.

These meetings will bring together G20 Member States, invited countries, and international organisations to advance global development cooperation and the financing of sustainable development. 

The gathering will focus on high-level principles on global public goods and global public investment; mobilising finance for development and means of implementation; and building resilience through universal social protection floors. 

For more G20 South Africa news articles, visit https://www.sanews.gov.za/search?keyword=g20. – SAnews.gov.za

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Higher Education targets bogus colleges in E Cape

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, July 11, 2025

The spotlight will be on bogus colleges operating in the Eastern Cape as the Department of Higher Education and Training undertakes an awareness campaign in the East London CBD.

The campaign will be led by Deputy Minister, Dr Mimmy Gondwe — in collaboration with Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, the South African Police Service, the Department of Home Affairs, and the Department of Employment and Labour — from 14  to 15 July.

It takes place ahead of the second semester registration and student intake. 

Buffalo City Mayor, Princess Faku, and other senior leaders will join the Deputy Minister during the campaign that will conduct oversight of private institutions of higher education in the area. 

“The Deputy Minister has consistently emphasised that ongoing awareness campaigns are an effective method to assist students and parents in avoiding illegal higher education institutions,” the department said. 

The campaign will start on Monday morning at the New Council Chambers on Oxford Street. It will go to Ebenezer Majombozi High School on Tuesday. – SAnews.gov.za

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Sports Minister welcomes Caster Semenya ruling

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has expressed his support for the recent ruling by the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) involving Caster Semenya. 

This ruling upheld a 2023 decision by the ECHR’s lower chamber, which found that Semenya was denied a fair and effective hearing by the Swiss Federal Tribunal. 

According to reports, this was part of the two-time Olympic champion’s seven-year legal battle against the eligibility rules in track and field. 

On Thursday, the court’s 17-judge panel ruled in a 15-2 vote that Semenya’s rights to a fair hearing were violated at Switzerland’s Supreme Court, where she had appealed a decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport in favour of World Athletics.

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) believes that the decision marks a critical moment in the long-standing battle for the dignity and human rights of female athletes with differences of sexual development.

“Caster, we as South Africa have always stood by you, and we will continue to do so as the fight for your bodily rights continues,” the Minister said. 

From the outset, the department said the South African government stood firmly behind Semenya. 

“Through the current DSAC and the former Department of Sport and Recreation, a coordinated and multi-sectoral response was established that included expert panels in the legal, medical, and advocacy spheres. 

“The department also launched the #NaturallySuperior campaign to mobilise public awareness and international solidarity, highlighting that Semenya’s natural talents should be celebrated rather than policed.”

DSAC committed financially in support of Athletics South Africa’s legal efforts with Semenya and further engaged with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to elevate the matter internationally, leading to a strong resolution on the matter at the United Nations Human Rights Council.

“This resolution condemned the current regulations against her as a violation of bodily integrity, equality, and freedom from cruel or degrading treatment.”

While the recent ruling has not overturned these discriminatory regulations, it is an important legal and moral victory, which opens new legal avenues and affirms the right of athletes such as Semenya to be heard on just and equal terms. 

DSAC said it will continue working with Athletics South Africa, legal experts, and other African governments and federations to pursue justice through all available channels, including within the structures of World Athletics.

“Caster Semenya has become the face of defiance against injustice in global sport, and this court victory is a victory for every African child. South Africa is proud of her, and we will walk every step of this journey with you, Caster, until justice is not only seen, but felt,” said McKenzie. 

“We can’t wait to see you running again,” he added.  

Meanwhile, the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) said they have noted the judgment handed down by the ECHR.  
“The Commission is still studying the judgment. A formal statement on our position will be released in due course,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

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Opening remarks by Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Ms Nonceba Mhlauli, at the YeBo GoBeyond Conference 2025 Opening Ceremony, Jakes Gerwel Hall, University of the Western Cape

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director, Wayde Groep;
Head of YearBeyond, Jacqueline Boulle;
Representatives from civil society;
And most importantly, our young leaders, change makers, dreamers and doers gathered here today;

Good morning, and thank you for the invitation to be part of this uplifting event that showcases the positive energies and productive ability of our nation’s youth.

I am truly sorry that I cannot be with you in person today but I believe your energy will rub off on me regardless of where I am.

The YeBo GoBeyond Conference 2025 is taking place at a very special venue.

The University of the Western Cape was a centre of struggle and conflict between the apartheid state and successions of progressive student movements.

It was a place where academics and students openly challenged the apartheid state with ideas, with class boycotts and with marches around the campus and in nearby communities.

Through the years of our struggle, the University of the Western Cape produced students of outstanding calibre who served our country and their communities across many professional and vocational fields.

The University has for decades been a centre of academic excellence and social and economic relevance.

It was this university’s Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Jakes Gerwel, who was chosen by our Founding President Nelson Mandela to be the first Director-General in The Presidency in our democratic dispensation.

It is this history that has made it possible for all of us to be part of this largest youth service conference on the African continent in 2025.

It is this history that made it possible for a once-isolated South Africa to become part of global society and to enable new generations of South Africans to develop and excel in the ways we are celebrating here today.

You are gathered here today not only as participants in a programme but as living proof of what it means to step up, show up, and make a difference.

We are here to celebrate you, to honour your spirit of service, and to reflect on the power of youth to shape the present and the future of our country.

Celebrating the Power of Youth

Each one of you represents the potential and power of South Africa’s youth.

Every single day, in your schools, communities, clinics, libraries, and homes, you demonstrate what it means to persevere. You are not waiting for change, you are the change.

You have chosen to serve others. You have chosen to believe in a better tomorrow, to dream beyond your circumstances, and to begin building what is right.

We speak often of Youth Month and the legacy of 1976 but that legacy lives on today in all of you. It lives in your actions, your commitment, and your refusal to accept a future that has already been written for you.

The Importance of Service

As I reflect on your work, I cannot help but think of Nelson Mandela and Jakes Gerwel, whose legacies were defined not by prestige, but by perseverance and purpose.

Their lives were lives of service. And as you walk this journey, you are following in that tradition.

It is therefore particularly appropriate that this conference is taking place in the month in which we commemorate the birth of our Founding President Nelson Mandela on 18 July 1918.

As we build on Madiba’s legacy, we take pride in what we are achieving with our Presidential Youth Employment Intervention, which is now in its second phase.

Service is at the very centre of this Intervention – because service is not just about what you do for others; it is also about what it builds in you.

Service is not always glamorous. Often it is quiet, sometimes invisible.

But it is also powerful. It builds character. It forges resilience. It teaches humility and purpose. And it gives you a voice, a voice rooted in action and impact.

You are serving your communities and, at the same time, you are preparing for your future.

Through this journey, you are becoming the healers, the builders, the educators, the creatives, and the leaders of today and tomorrow.

Confronting Challenges Teenage Pregnancy and Education

We cannot talk about youth without acknowledging some of the real challenges many young people are facing and one of those is teenage pregnancy.

The numbers are alarming. More than 90,000 teenage pregnancies were recorded in the past year, many involving girls as young as 10 years old. This is not just a health or education issue.

This is a societal crisis that speaks to gender inequality, sexual violence, and the absence of supportive systems.

We must confront this reality with honesty and urgency. We must say to young people, especially our young women: your future matters. Your education matters. Your life is not over.

And our message applies equally to boys and young men, who need to reflect on the values, beliefs and behaviours that should shape their lives for the better.

Baby Mamas and Baby Daddys may sound cool and look like a source of gossip and entertainment on our socials but in real life, there is nothing for anyone to be proud of.

That is why we urge young people to stay focused on school, to take part in sport, arts, debate clubs, tutoring, and youth organisations because when you are surrounded by positive energy and strong role models, you can go further.

Unlocking Post-Matric Opportunities for Youth

As we gather here to celebrate your commitment to service and growth, it is equally important that we look ahead to the many doors that can open after you complete your matric or service journey.

Whether you choose to study further at a place such as UWC, or you wish to enter the workforce or explore entrepreneurship, there are real opportunities available, and support exists to help you access them.

One of the most direct pathways is through higher education.

The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) continues to support access to universities and TVET colleges, with funding available through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for qualifying students.

The Central Applications Clearing House (CACH) is also in place to assist learners who may not yet have secured placement in an institution.

For those seeking work experience and training, learnerships and skills development programmes are offered by Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).

These programmes combine formal learning with practical, on-the-job training in sectors such as information technology, agriculture, construction, hospitality, and finance.

Youth who are interested in starting their own businesses can access support through the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), which offers grants, training, and mentorship.

The Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) and the Department of Small Business Development also provide a range of tools and resources to empower young entrepreneurs and informal traders.

Young people interested in science and innovation can explore internships and study opportunities through institutions such as the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and various innovation hubs that support STEM careers. These platforms nurture curiosity and create real opportunities for youth in emerging fields.

Those gifted in sports, arts, or culture can benefit from programmes run by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), which offers bursaries, mentorship, and platforms to showcase talent through festivals, exhibitions, and competitions across the country.

Finally, for those looking to grow through service, leadership, or global exposure, there are also local and international youth exchange and fellowship programmes such as ACTIVATE! Leadership, the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), and the South Africa-Washington International Program (SAWIP). These platforms nurture active citizenship and build networks of emerging changemakers.

The journey after matric is not a cliff-edge but a launch pad.
With the right information and guidance, every young person can step confidently into their next chapter. Government, together with its partners, remains committed to ensuring that no young person is left behind.

As South Africa proudly hosts the G20 this year under the theme of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” young people have a unique opportunity to engage on issues that shape our shared future.

I encourage all of you to follow and participate in the Y20 (Youth 20) engagement group, which is the official youth platform of the G20.

Through the Y20, youth from around the world contribute to global policy discussions on climate action, digital transformation, education, and employment.

This is your chance to raise your voice, share your perspective, and be part of shaping international dialogue. Take advantage of this moment. Get involved. The world is listening.

A Call to Action: Go Beyond

Over the next three days, you will meet new people, gain new skills, and open new possibilities for your future. Make the most of it. Be curious. Be brave. Go beyond.

Take what you learn here and carry it back to your communities not only as knowledge but as purpose.
You are not here by accident. You were chosen because someone saw the leader in you.

I urge you to use this moment not only to listen, but to connect. Engage with one another, build relationships, and expand your network. The partnerships and insights you gain today can lay the foundation for collective action that outlives this meeting.

But let me be clear: Government cannot do this work alone.

We need civil society, faith leaders, the private sector, schools, families, and mentors to stand with us. As the old African saying goes, “it takes a village to raise a child.” It takes a nation to build a generation.

And that’s why we are here because we believe in you, and we believe that this generation will be the one that goes beyond what was ever expected.

Conclusion

To the organisers, facilitators, and partners of YearBeyond thank you for investing in the next generation.

To the young people you are not just the future, you are the present.

And to all of us here may this be a reminder of why we serve, and who we serve.

We appreciate your service. And we look forward to your leadership as you become the next generation to make South Africa “A Nation That Works for All”.

Let’s continue to Go Beyond!