The Gauteng ANC Youth League (ANCYL) has called on Premier Panyaza Lesufi to allocate a R1-billion budget to the newly established Gauteng Youth Advisory Panel.
Mpumelelo Sangweni, the provincial secretary for the youth league, said the panel would not work effectively without proper funding.
The panel was announced by Acting Premier Faith Mazibuko on Thursday, following the Asi’Spani march to the office of the premier led by the Gauteng ANCYL on Wednesday.
“The establishment of the youth advisory panel is one focal point of our broader mission to achieve youth empowerment, but we are clear that more must be done.
“The youth of Gauteng are no longer just the future; we are the present. We are the driving force behind economic growth, innovation, and social change,” said Sangweni.
He said these funds would assist in fighting youth unemployment by supporting youth-owned businesses, building sustainable skills for the 4IR economy, creating platforms for youth-led solutions to social and economic issues, and increasing access to bursaries, internships, and mentorship opportunities.
League happy with panel’s composition
“We firmly believe that with this financial commitment, the youth advisory panel can be the game-changer that turns words into action and aspirations into tangible opportunities.
“The ANCYL in Gauteng remains unwavering in its commitment to ensuring that young people take centre stage in the growth, transformation, and development of our province.”
He said the youth league in the province also seeks to have more young people appointed to senior positions in government and public entities.
“The ANCYL is satisfied with the composition of the announced panel and believes that the young, credible, and capable individuals appointed will rise to the occasion.
“We wish them well as they take up the enormous responsibility of shaping youth development policies in the province.
“As the ANCYL, we will support their work while exercising our role of close monitoring and accountability,” said Sangweni.
Members of the panel are: Thuto Mashila, Wandile Mofokeng, Karabo Shai, Rivoningo Mthombeni, Kagiso Kuypers, Vuyolethu Elvis Sibiya, Mamello Sigasa, Mikateko Benedict Phalene, Clerah Sethole, Muhammed Yaeesh Cassim, Dr Tshegofatso Masenya, Grace Motsoagae, Tshiamo Chuma, Tholithembelihle Ngwenya, Nthabiseng Dikobe and Patrick Mabaso.
