EDM paves the way for local learners

MBOMBELA – June is regarded as Youth Month, hence Ehlanzeni District Municipality (EDM) hosted a number of young people at its offices during the past week, to give them first-hand information about the workplace. A Cell C initiative aimed at exposing girl children to the workplace, this time EDM decided to invite both boys and girls, with the theme, “Dream, believe, achieve”. The targeted number was 40 learners from eight schools in the district. Five each were selected from Mashishing, Sikhila, Emjindini, Chief Funwako, Hlanganani, Sbhulo, Lambalati and Mbambiso High schools.
Cllr Mokoena, the portfolio member of social services, mentioned that the government did everything possible to retain the dignity of the people, hence such programmes were held. “As the district, we are grateful to host the future leaders. Choosing the right career will allow you to live a healthy, normal life. The most important thing to do is to commit yourselves to your studies. Respect is the way to success and in this way you won’t have to fight for what your parents worked for,” Mokoena concluded.
The manager of disaster management, Sphetho Mhlongo emphasised the fact that people shouldn’t be unemployable because of lack of qualifications. “As learners, don’t be afraid to knock on these offices’ doors if you need information. Please persist until you are assisted. Today you are here to be exposed to government matters. Learn to be determined, especially about your future. Use this day effectively, because time is the most essential thing that we need in life,” he said.
A motivational talk was given by Brenden Ledwaba, Idols finalist 2013, who is currently studying sound engineering. He mentioned that the learners should consider education as the key element in their lives. “Prayer, talent and education got me where I am today. At the age of 10, I started playing the piano, and last year when I got to Idols, I was given a score sheet which I was expected to read with understanding. How would I have done it had I not taken my piano lessons seriously? After matric, I studied music. I am able to read and write music.
“There are many different ways to succeed. Acquaint yourselves with influential people and as controversial as this seems, don’t choose success more often than you choose happiness. Don’t forget your families and where you come from and always be there when people need you,”
said Ledwaba.
A panel discussion was held between the learners and officials. Obakeng Phiri, a matriculant of Hlanganani Secondary School, said that coming to the district offices was a rare opportunity for her.
“The time was too short for us.
In my group we were honoured to be selected to visit the mayor’s offices. They are beautiful, and I wish that one day I could be the mayor. Going back, I am going to work hard.”
Shai Nkomonde of Sibhulo Secondary said that although they didn’t have experience as teachers, the programme showed them the practical side of the various careers.
Nthabiseng Mokoena of Sikhila Senior Secondary school was delighted to be part of the group. “I was at the technical department because after matric I will be studying metallurgical engineering. I do not like civil engineering, but I enjoyed this because at least I had an idea of what was happening within the department.”
Certificates of participation were issued to every learner and also gift bags from Cell C. Brenden Ledwaba treated his peers to sweet, mellow music.