KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli delivered a keynote address during the Youth Month Commemoration event at Mangosuthu University of Technology in Umlazi on Sunday, 30 June 2024. The event marked the close-out of Youth Month, bringing together young people from across the province to discuss critical issues affecting their lives, including social ills, education, employment and job creation.

In his address, Premier Ntuli acknowledged the significant challenges faced by the youth of KwaZulu-Natal. He reiterated that the provincial government understands the plight of the youth and is committed to working together to overcome these challenges and build a better, more resilient province. The Premier emphasised the need to inspire hope among KZN citizens, particularly the youth, who are the future leaders and innovators of the province.

"Today, as we close out Youth Month, we are not just ending a series of events but renewing our commitment to the youth of KwaZulu-Natal," said Premier Ntuli. "Youth Day must cease to be a talk shop; it must bear impactful rewards. Our youth deserve more than just promises – they deserve real opportunities and tangible outcomes."

The Premier's address was met with enthusiasm and applause from the gathered audience, many of whom took the opportunity to engage directly with him during the event. Discussions covered a wide range of topics, with young people voicing their concerns about social ills such as crime and substance abuse, the quality and accessibility of education and the pressing issue of unemployment.

Premier Ntuli assured the young attendees that the provincial government is taking their concerns seriously and is actively working on strategies to address these issues. He urged the youth to take charge of their future by making their voices heard in the delivery of services and by participating actively in the democratic process.

"We need your voices, your ideas and your energy to drive the change we all want to see," Premier Ntuli continued. "Together, we can overcome these challenges and build a province where every young person has the opportunity to thrive."

The close-out event at Mangosuthu University of Technology was a significant milestone in Youth Month, highlighting the provincial government's commitment to addressing the needs and aspirations of its young citizens. It was a call to action for the youth to continue to engage, participate, and contribute to the development of KwaZulu-Natal.

As Youth Month concluded, the sentiment was clear: the future of KwaZulu-Natal lies in the hands of its youth and with the support of the provincial government, a brighter, more resilient future is within reach.