Chairperson, hon Ministers and Deputy Ministers, hon members, youth leaders in the gallery and distinguished guests, I had an opportunity earlier today to attend the Youth Parliament and listen to representatives of various youth formations as they grappled with challenges that young people in South Africa face on a daily basis.
Then I looked at the theme of this debate. We are saying that we are a caring Parliament and we are further saying that this Parliament advances youth development to achieve economic freedom.
The youth of our country is worried about unemployment, rumoured to be around 25%, with 75% of that figure being young people. They are concerned about lack of opportunities and the fact that it is difficult for them to get jobs as employers tell them that they do not have experience.
With this Parliament having approved a budget where employers who employ the youth will be subsidised, this caring Parliament should be worried that we have not seen any upswing in the number of young people being employed.
There is also the anomaly of young people having incomplete diplomas and degrees because they cannot get placement for experiential learning or practical work.
Young people are worried about alcohol and drug abuse, particularly among the youth, as this is destroying the moral fibre of society. They are asking whether this caring Parliament cannot pass laws that will make it difficult for young people to have easy access to alcohol and drugs.
Our youth is concerned about the scourge of HIV and Aids, and the fact that it hits the youth hardest. Our youth knows that there is a link between HIV and Aids and alcohol and drug abuse as abusers expose themselves to infection through risky behaviour.
Azapo's message to our youth is that they should also play their part in addressing the problems that they have identified. The interactions of youth organisations should go beyond the Youth Parliament.
On the occasion of the 35th anniversary of 16 June 1976, Azapo pays tribute to those young people who waged a relentless struggle against oppression, particularly those who paid the ultimate price.
Our youth should draw inspiration from the struggle that was waged by those who came before them, and avoid engaging in activities that desecrate the memory of the 16 June generation.
Azapo dips its banner in memory of all martyrs of the liberation struggle and in memory of those who fell on 16 June 1976. Their blood has not been spilt in vain. Thank you. [Applause.]