Chairperson, hon members, sweet and fast-talking, clear and energetic, powerful and demanding - that's the vibrant voice of our youth.
How many of us are giving them an ear? Are we really listening to give help, or just criticising because they are young? It's high time we adults adopted the listening skills of our youth. Times have changed. Youths are just not the same as in the 19th century.
Regarding them in the highest esteem and not just taking them for granted would be fruitful for our country. This is not just their vibrant voice, but their high-class actions, taste, art, sport and music compel us adults to support their institutions so that they can be a force to be reckoned with. Are we considering them in society communications? Do we share ideas with them, mould them in their speech and actions, accept them and let them belong to everything we do, tell and teach them beautiful things in life, let them know what is wrong and right? Authority is an awesome word that can be intimidating for young people as well as adults. However, without authority the youth's voice is a hollow cry in a loud argument.
Building the skills of our children and youth, and engaging them in democracy, adults can provide practical steps toward empowerment instead of just words. They must involve young people in activities that are actual, powerful, purposeful and rewarding. Things have now changed. Our country is at a stage of rebuilding from its ugly past. We are faced with so many challenges that require participation of the youth. Their agenda for a better life is even more pronounced than before. The youth are not only in the majority, they are the ones most affected by the socioeconomic and political ills of the past.
Youth unemployment, their underemployment and employability will remain a primary policy challenge ... [Time expired.]