Youth need to reset their thinking
'It is unacceptable for the youth of today to involve themselves in activities of the past'
IF young people spend most of their time at school studying and respect their parents and others, the future of this country will be in safe hands.
This was the message of Minister of Police Nkosinathi Nhleko, addressing the community of Ndabayakhe last week where he also honoured local senior citizens for ‘nurturing’ him.
‘The youth of today must use every opportunity that comes their way to educate themselves. Gone are the days when the youth used to burn schools in pursuit of liberation.
‘We did that as the youth of that time in an effort to create a climate conducive for quality education, thus securing a brighter future for you the next generation.
‘It is therefore unacceptable for the youth of today to involve themselves in activities of the past, such as the burning of schools and other public institutions, in a free and democratic society,’ Nhleko said.
‘I am where I am today because of the invaluable assistance, support and mentorship I received from this humble community of Ndabayakhe.
‘I’m here to give thanks to the wonderful gogos and mkhulus who nurtured me. I believe that a good child is raised by the community and not only by his parents.’
Born and bred in Ndabayakhe Reserve, Nhleko is one of the few Cabinet Ministers who had a taste of learning under trees.
‘Coming from poor communities we are not ashamed to say we are the product of leaders who learned under the trees. I was happy to discover that the tree we used as our classroom is still there.
‘I wish to appeal to community leaders and education officials to keep that tree because of its historical significance. This is where I was taught respect and integrity.’
Nhleko, joined by the uMhlathuze Deputy Municipal Manager Matthew Oliphant, Dr Nomcebo Mthembu of Indoni and officials from Mvunonala Holdings, also handed over blankets and clothing to senior citizens who converged at the Ndabayakhe Primary School ground.
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