Youth water summit held in Boksburg
The Deputy Minister of Water and Environment Affairs, Rejoice Mabudafhasi, led the fifth annual Youth Water Summit that took place at the Birchwood Hotel.
The summit, which began on July 1 ended on July 5, hosted close to 1 000 learners and educators from South Africa and other African states under the theme, “Working together for youth development and a drug free South Africa”.
Ekurhuleni mayor, Mondli Gunguble, joined the deputy minister as she led the conservation awareness 2km walk prior to the opening ceremony.
During this summit, members of the youth have been given the platform to share ideas and cooperate in fostering the awareness of water conservation and to increase enthusiasm from the youth to pursue water-related careers.
This is all in an effort to expose the learners and educators to topical issues on water and climate change.
Speaking at the official opening of the summit, Mabudafhasi said that he was encouraged to see the commitment and determination displayed by the young people during the walk.
“One of the happiest times of my life in each year is the week of the Youth Water Summit, as I know that I meet water ambassadors, future leaders, patriots and the most intelligent people of our country who go out of their way to research and learn more about water-related issues, internalise it, implement good practices and impart it to their families and communities.
“This gives us hope that when we die, our country and mother earth will be in safe hands. I always learn new things from all of you and share it with other people,” said Mabudafhasi.
During early days of the summit, the young guests were taken for excursions to get a better understanding of water resource management, they were also given a chance to participate in public speaking and debates, and participate in different competitions.
