Youth Month Message by the National Secretary of YCLSA

by | Jun 27, 2024 | Speeches

27 June 2024

Thembelihle Primary School, Oupa Phasha District – Gauteng Province
Delivered by: Mzwandile Thakhudi, National Secretary of the Young Communist League of South Africa (YCLSA)

BUA Thursdays Youth Talk Series: The future of the NDR in the framework of the GNU in the lenses of the Youth

Comrades, Friends, and Fellow Youth of South Africa,

Introduction to the Youth Month Message

As we approach the final days of Youth Month, on this last Thursday of June, we have chosen today’s Bua Thursday to address and underscore what the YCLSA sees as the path forward in this new era of governance in South Africa. We gather not simply to commemorate Youth Month but to reaffirm our steadfast commitment to the principles and struggles that have shaped our past and will define our future. Following the recent National and Provincial elections. The ANC, our long-standing ally, faced an unprecedented defeat at the national level, securing only 40% representation in the National Assembly.

Therefore as we deliver this historic Youth Month message, the YCLSA has consciously chosen the theme: “The Future of the National Democratic Revolution (NDR) within the Framework of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in the Lenses of the Youth.” This is in line with the National Committee resolution to declare 2024 the year of the District to Mobilize, Educate and Agitate the Youth for Socialism.

Our theme for this week’s BUA Thursday underscores our recognition of the important crossroads at which we stand and our resolve to chart a progressive path forward. It is a call to reflect on our revolutionary duty, embrace the challenges before us, and harness our collective strength to drive forward the National Democratic Revolution.

“Each generation must, out of relative obscurity, discover its mission, fulfill it, or betray it.” – Franz Fanon.

An Historical Context and Our Revolutionary Duty

Comrades, as we reflect on our journey as the youth of South Africa, we draw strength and inspiration from the legacy of the bravery expressed by the youth of 1976. In the face of brutal oppression and discriminatory injustice, they discovered their mission and fulfilled it by taking a resolute protest against racial tyranny of the National Party led legislature, judiciary and government. The courageous actions of the youth of this generation ignites within us a flame of resistance that continues to burn brightly in our hearts and minds. We honor and celebrate the bravery and invaluable contributions of these young revolutionaries who played a pivotal role in the liberation struggle.

Today, we are confronted with a set of new and complex challenges that require our immediate and swift attention. High unemployment rates plague our generation, leaving many young people without opportunities to build a better future. Poverty remains a persistent issue, undermining the dignity and potential of our people. Deep-seated inequalities in income, wealth, race, gender, and spatial distribution continue to divide our society and hinder progress.

The proven instability associated with coalition politics in local government has severely compromised effective governance and the delivery of essential public goods and services. This instability has led to a lack of accountability, inefficiency, and a failure to address the needs of our communities. We must be vigilant in avoiding such instability by demanding clear guarantees, transparency, and accountability from our leaders. We must insist on governance that prioritizes the interests of the people, especially the working class, over political expediency.

The Role of the Youth

“The youth are not only the future of our country but also its vibrant present.”

As Lenin emphasized in his speech “The Tasks of the Youth Leagues,” published in our June edition of “Bottomline,” the youth must be at the forefront of societal transformation, embodying the ideals of socialism and leading the charge against capitalist exploitation. Lenin correctly stated, “The generation of those who are now about fifteen will see a communist society, just as certainly as we see it now in outline.” In this light, we must invest substantially in education, skills development, and employment opportunities for our young people. Education must go beyond mere literacy; it must instill a consciousness of social justice, equality, and the need for collective action. The plight of the disadvantaged and working class, who have borne the brunt of economic hardships, must be alleviated through targeted policies and interventions geared towards industrialization, poverty eradication, and the reduction of inequality.

Drawing from Lenin’s vision, we understand that the youth must be equipped not just with technical skills, but with a revolutionary spirit. Our education systems should promote critical thinking and a deep understanding of the socio-economic structures that perpetuate inequality. Skills development must be aligned with the needs of a growing, industrialized economy, ensuring that young people are prepared for the jobs of the future.

Employment opportunities must be created through a robust industrial policy that prioritizes the needs of the working class. We must push for the development of industries that not only provide jobs but also build the foundation of a self-sufficient economy. Policies must focus on sectors that have the potential to drive inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Moreover, we must address the immediate and pressing needs of the youth, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. This requires a multifaceted approach that includes social safety nets, access to quality healthcare, and support for young entrepreneurs. By creating an enabling environment, we can ensure that all young people, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the nation’s development.

As the YCLSA, we are committed to leading these efforts. We will continue to advocate for policies that prioritize the youth and ensure their active participation in the socio-economic transformation of our country. By working collaboratively with all progressive forces, we aim to develop innovative solutions and policies that empower the youth and ensure their voices are heard in shaping our nation’s future.

Our task is clear: we must harness the energy, creativity, and determination of the youth to build a society that is just, equitable, and prosperous. This is our revolutionary duty, and it is a mission we must fulfill with unwavering commitment.

“The National Democratic Revolution (NDR) is our guide, our blueprint for dismantling the oppressive structures of capitalism and imperialism. As we look to the future, the youth must continue to play a pivotal role in this revolutionary struggle, ensuring that the principles of social justice, equality, and solidarity remain at the forefront of our national agenda.”

Confronting Our Modern Struggles: Navigating Towards a Socialist Future

Unemployment: Youth unemployment in South Africa has reached alarming levels. This crisis not only exacerbates poverty but also deepens social inequalities. The lack of decent job opportunities leaves many young people in a state of economic insecurity and despair. The systemic failures of the capitalist economy and the coordinated investment strike from the white minority right-wing, which prioritizes profit over people, are evident in the persistent joblessness among the youth. We need a robust strategy that promotes job creation, supports entrepreneurship, and ensures fair labor practices and legislation to provide sustainable employment for our young people.

Education: Despite the progress made since the end of apartheid, access to quality education remains uneven. Many young people, especially in rural and under-resourced urban areas, are deprived of the opportunities to learn and grow. This inequality in education perpetuates the cycle of poverty and limits social mobility. We must continue to advocate for substantially more investments in education infrastructure, teacher training, and a decolonised curriculum development in both basic and higher education to ensure that every young person in South Africa has a fair opportunity to receive a free quality education.

Inequality: Deep-seated social and economic disparities continue to undermine the principles of the National Democratic Revolution (NDR). The concentration of wealth in the hands of a few, along with systemic racism and gender inequality, creates barriers to equal opportunity and justice. Tackling these inequalities requires comprehensive policies that address income distribution, provide social security nets, and promote inclusive economic growth. It is imperative that we fight for a society where everyone, regardless of their background, has a fair chance to succeed.

Poverty: Poverty remains a significant barrier to the full participation of young people in society. It limits access to basic necessities such as food, healthcare, and housing, thus impeding the ability of young people to achieve their full potential. To eradicate poverty, we must advocate for economic policies that promote wealth redistribution, support social welfare programs, and stimulate economic development in marginalized communities.

Gender-Based Violence & Femicide: The scourge of gender-based violence and Femicide continues to plague our communities, with young women bearing the brunt of this violence. This issue is not only a social injustice but also a violation of human rights.. Combating gender-based violence and femicide requires a collective effort from all sectors of society to change attitudes and behaviors that perpetuate this violence.

Mental Health: The mental health crisis among the youth, exacerbated by socio-economic pressures, is a pressing issue that demands urgent attention. The stigma surrounding mental health issues, coupled with inadequate mental health services, leaves many young people without the support they need. We must advocate for better mental health education, accessible mental health care services, and a supportive environment that prioritizes the mental well-being of young people.

Substance Abuse: Rising substance abuse among the youth is a symptom of broader social issues, including unemployment, poverty, and lack of opportunities. Addressing substance abuse requires a holistic approach that tackles these root causes, provides rehabilitation services, and promotes healthy lifestyle choices. We must create an environment that supports young people in making positive life choices and offers them the resources to overcome addictions.

International Solidarity and Anti-Imperialism

In times like these, we as youth must recognize that our struggle is not isolated but part of a global fight against imperialism and capitalist exploitation. Here are a few markers of how the YCLSA stands in unwavering solidarity with oppressed peoples worldwide:

  1. Support for Progressive Global Movements: We align ourselves with progressive international movements dedicated to advancing workers’ rights, social justice, and equality. By forging alliances with like-minded organizations globally, we amplify our collective voice against systemic injustices.
  2. Anti-Imperialism: We staunchly oppose imperialist actions and policies that exploit and oppress communities around the world. Imperialism perpetuates economic inequality, undermines sovereignty, and fosters global instability. Our resistance is grounded in the belief that every nation and people have the right to self-determination free from external interferences.
  3. Collaboration: We actively cultivate networks with youth organizations and progressive movements worldwide. Through these partnerships, we exchange knowledge, resources, and strategies to strengthen our collective impact in the global struggle for liberation and social transformation.
  4. International Solidarity: The YCLSA reaffirms its enduring solidarity with the people of Palestine and supports South Africa’s commitment to a progressive international relations policy. We advocate for deeper alignment within the BRICS Plus community of states and stand in solidarity with Cuba against imperialist aggression.

Building a Social Economy

  1. A Social Economy: Prioritizing People Over Profit: A social economy is one that prioritizes the well-being of people over profit, ensuring that economic activities benefit all members of society. This approach is essential for creating a fair and equitable economy that serves the needs of everyone, especially the youth and marginalized communities.
  2. Cooperatives and Worker-Owned Enterprises: We promote cooperatives and worker-owned businesses as effective models for economic development. These enterprises empower workers by giving them control over their workplaces, ensuring fair wages, and fostering democratic decision-making. By supporting cooperatives, we can build a more inclusive and resilient economy.
  3. Inclusive Policies: We advocate for policies that ensure economic opportunities are accessible to all, particularly marginalized youth. This includes creating pathways for education, training, and employment that are open to everyone, regardless of their background. Inclusive policies are essential for breaking the cycle of poverty and promoting social mobility.
  4. Sustainable Development: We emphasize sustainability and environmental justice in economic planning and development. Our economic activities must not only meet the needs of the present but also ensure that future generations can thrive. This means adopting practices that protect our environment, reduce carbon emissions, and promote renewable energy sources.

Strategic Initiatives: Launching and Supporting Youth Cooperatives

  1. Develop a Cooperative Framework: We will create comprehensive guidelines and resources for establishing and managing youth cooperatives. This framework will provide young entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools they need to start and sustain successful cooperative businesses.
  2. Provide Start-Up Grants: We will lobby the government to allocate funds for start-up grants to support the creation of youth cooperatives. These grants will provide the necessary capital for young people to launch their enterprises, fostering economic empowerment and innovation.
  3. Offer Training Programs: We will partner with educational institutions and NGOs to offer training programs on cooperative management, financial literacy, and sustainable practices. These programs will equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively run their cooperatives and contribute to the broader economy.

Fostering a Student-Worker Alliance

The alliance between students and workers is essential for advancing the National Democratic Revolution (NDR). This partnership can drive progressive change by leveraging the collective power and shared interests of both groups.

  1. Unified Struggles: Uniting student and worker movements to fight for common goals is crucial. Both groups face systemic challenges such as economic inequality, exploitation, and inadequate social services. By joining forces, students and workers can amplify their demands and exert greater pressure on policymakers and employers to enact meaningful reforms.
  2. Mutual Support: Building solidarity between students and workers is vital, as their struggles are interconnected. Workers need educated and skilled young people to join the workforce, while students rely on workers’ efforts to secure better working conditions and wages that can support families and communities. Recognizing this interdependence fosters mutual support and strengthens the broader movement for social justice.
  3. Collective Action: Mobilizing joint actions, protests, and campaigns can push for systemic change. When students and workers come together in collective action, their combined efforts can lead to significant societal shifts. From advocating for affordable education to demanding fair labor practices, their unified voice can challenge entrenched power structures and drive progressive policies.
  4. Create Council Charters: Developing charters and guidelines for the formation and operation of Student-Worker Councils is the first step. These charters will outline the purpose, structure, and functions of the councils, ensuring clarity and consistency in their operations.
  5. Identify Key Institutions: Targeting key universities, colleges, and workplaces for the initial rollout of these councils is crucial. By starting with institutions that have a strong history of activism and engagement, we can build a solid foundation for the Student-Worker Alliance.
  6. Organize Joint Meetings: Facilitating regular meetings between student and worker representatives is essential for fostering dialogue and collaboration. These meetings will provide a platform for discussing shared concerns, planning joint actions, and building a cohesive strategy for achieving common goals.
  7. Launch Advocacy Campaigns: Using the councils to launch advocacy campaigns on issues such as fair wages, affordable education, and better working conditions is a powerful way to drive change. By coordinating efforts and leveraging the strengths of both students and workers, these campaigns can effectively raise awareness and push for policy reforms.

Harnessing Digitalisation for Youth Empowerment

Digital Literacy:

Universal Access to Digital Education: Ensure that all young people have access to digital education and literacy programs. Digital literacy is essential for participating in the modern economy and society, providing the skills needed to navigate and thrive in a digital world.

Equitable Access:

Closing the Digital Divide: Close the digital divide by providing affordable access to technology and the internet for all communities. Access to digital tools and connectivity is a fundamental right that enables educational and economic opportunities.

Leveraging Technology to Address Social Issues: Encourage the use of digital technologies to address social issues, improve public services, and foster inclusive economic growth. Innovation should serve the public good and contribute to societal progress.

Advancing Digital Inclusion: Concrete Steps Forward

  1. Develop Digital Literacy Programs: Create and implement digital literacy curricula in schools and community centers. These programs should cover basic digital skills as well as more advanced competencies needed for the digital economy.
  2. Provide Subsidized Technology: Partner with tech companies to provide affordable or free devices and internet access to underserved communities. This collaboration can help bridge the digital divide and ensure that all young people have the tools they need to succeed.
  3. Support Tech Startups: Establish incubators and funding opportunities for tech-based startups led by young entrepreneurs. Supporting innovation and entrepreneurship can drive economic growth and create new job opportunities in the digital sector.
  4. Promote E-Government Services: Encourage the development and use of e-government services to make public services more accessible and efficient. This can include online platforms for education, healthcare, and social services, reducing barriers to access.
  5. Foster Digital Entrepreneurship: Create platforms and programs that support young digital entrepreneurs. This can include mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to venture capital. Encouraging digital entrepreneurship can drive innovation and create new economic opportunities.
  6. Enhance Cybersecurity Education: Integrate cybersecurity education into digital literacy programs to ensure young people are aware of how to protect themselves and their data online. A strong focus on cybersecurity is essential as more activities move online.
  7. Encourage Digital Creativity: Promote digital creativity and innovation through competitions, hackathons, and collaborative projects. Engaging young people in creative digital projects can inspire them to pursue careers in technology and innovation.
  8. Support Digital Inclusion for People with Disabilities: Ensure that digital inclusion efforts specifically address the needs of young people with disabilities. This includes providing accessible technologies and ensuring that digital literacy programs are inclusive.

Call to Action

We must build strong networks, both locally and internationally, there is no reason for us to reinvent the wheel to solve the challenges that confront the youth of this nation. The future is ours to shape, and through our collective efforts, we will build a South Africa that truly reflects the aspirations of its people, where the youth plays an active role in embracing their mission with pride, purpose, and an unyielding commitment to the principles of the Freedom Charter and the National Democratic Revolution.

Looking Forward

Looking ahead, the YCLSA charts a bold and unwavering vision for the future of South Africa. We commit ourselves unequivocally to championing the rights and aspirations of every young South African, ensuring that every voice is heard and every dream has the opportunity to be realized. Central to our shared vision is the creation of a society where prosperity is not a privilege but a reality for all. This ambitious goal demands more than mere rhetoric; it necessitates concrete and decisive action.

Closing Statement

In closing, the YCLSA stands steadfast and resolute, ready to lead and inspire a new generation of thought-shapers and change-makers.

“Stand strong, fight on – socialism is our future!”

Message Delivered by National Secretary, Comrade Mzwandile Thakhudi

Statement Ends