Thank you, House Chairperson. Hon members, we stand in solidarity with the people of Chinese-occupied Tibet.
Hon Chairperson, at the outset and as this is my maiden speech, let me convey my gratitude to the IFP, under the visionary leadership of that great son of Africa, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, for granting me the opportunity to serve the people of South Africa as a member of this Parliament.
Sir, 36 years ago the youth of South Africa, who were zealous and enthusiastic about education and committed to a South Africa free of apartheid, injustice and oppression, selflessly gave of themselves through courageous uprisings throughout our country. It is 36 years on and 18 years into our freedom and democracy, and we salute their resolute courage and honourable sacrifice, which contributed to our today being a politically free generation.
Yet, young South Africans today are struggling to get by. Patience is fast dwindling and hope is fast wearing thin.
Education must be improved, teachers must be capacitated, schools must be fully resourced, and skills development must be a priority. The youth wage subsidy must be implemented now. [Applause.] The Setas must get their act together. Labour laws need to be relaxed. Further Education and Training, FET, colleges must be refurbished in such a way that they become institutions of choice, not circumstance. Let us put an end to this foolish debate on nationalisation! Colleges of education must be reopened. Importantly, jobs, jobs, jobs and more jobs must be created.
As we celebrate the memory and legacy of the youth of 1976, let us redirect our focus, attention and commitment towards alleviating the plight of all youth. Let us genuinely strive to develop young men and women who will deliver our second phase of liberation, that of economic freedom - a liberation of opportunities that will improve our lives by creating jobs, eradicating poverty and fighting inequality.
The argument, hon members, that 18 years is not enough time to sort out our problems amounts to hogwash of the highest order. This argument simply does not hold water. It bears no merit.
South Africa, having only been at work on it for six years, was able to deliver a Soccer World Cup Tournament in 2010 that was beyond successful. The same energy, commitment and passion should be applied to improving the lives of all South Africans in general, and the youth in particular. The success of the World Cup Tournament proves that South Africa is not short of capacity. The current state of poverty, poor education, endemic corruption, and high levels of inequality proves that those in power lack, beyond all reasonable doubt, the desired and necessary political will, leadership and commitment to changing our country for the better.
In conclusion, the high levels of unemployment point to a failing system and a failing government. Government has two options: to shape up or to ship out. Failing that, 1976 will repeat itself sooner than we think. The IFP wishes all South Africans well as we celebrate Youth Day 2012. Thank you. [Time expired.] [Applause.]