The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) on Monday launched youth month at the Hector Pieterson Museum in Soweto, Johannesburg. The 2013 celebrations will run under the theme “Working together for Youth development and a Drug Free South Africa”. The Youth Month Programme for 2013 will also include youth entrepreneurship roadshows in partnership with Intel South Africa. These roadshows are part of our drive at encouraging more young people to take up entrepreneurship. Five roadshows will take place in Port Elizabeth, Durban, Khayelitsha, Pretoria and Thokoza during the month of June. NYDA Chairperson Yershen Pillay says that in line with the theme which was approved by cabinet his organisation will work tirelessly to ensure that more action is taken in ensuring that South Africa becomes a drug free nation. Deputy Minister of Performance Monitoring, Evaluation & Administration, Obed Bapela says that government has recognised that the youth of today have a different struggle. “The 2013 theme is relevant as substance abuse is affecting the youth. Government’s decisive action in Eldorado Park is an example of our seriousness.” says Bapela. Bapela also urged communities to lead the fight against substance abuse. The launch of youth month also saw the laying of wreaths at the Hector Pieterson memorial site.
– By Luvuyo Mdeni
