Speech by President Nelson Mandela at the Joint Education Trust annual review
Speech by President Nelson Mandela at the Joint Education Trust annual review
Johannesburg, 29 March 1996
Ladies and Gentlemen:
On its establishment, South Africa's first democratic government faced
daunting challenges in the education sector. The lack of proper educational
facilities and resources along with apartheid's devastating effect on our social
fabric had created a crisis in education and training of immense proportions.
The problem required a new multi-faceted approach to co-ordinate the efforts of
different sectors of society, within an overall framework for fundamental
change.
Thus we welcomed the formation of the Joint Education Trust in 1992 as a move
inspired by patriotism and vision. Eighteen leading South African companies
joined hands with our political parties, labour unions and educational
organisations. This dynamic partnership of government, business, NGO's and
community organisations has facilitated a practical programme within a common
vision for peace, prosperity and opportunity for all South Africans.
The focus of the Joint Education Trust's activities locates it in areas that
were most severely neglected historically - such as early childhood development;
youth development; vocational training; and adult basic education and training.
These are are sector working with government and communities, can make a marked
impact, especially as catalysts for innovation.
By directing these activities towards those who have been pushed to the
margins of our society, and by doing so in such a way that they are empowered to
change their own conditions, we are making a very special contribution to the
building of our nation.
One project that is close to my heart encapsulates the strengths of this
partnership. It is the Ekuseni Youth Development Centre, initiative aimed at
piloting a new approach to the rehabilitation of young convicted persons.
Government will provide the running costs once the facility is established.
However, without the capital injection of R33,6 million by the Private Sector
Initiative, government's capacity to create an environment conducive to learning
and rehabilitation would be severely limited.
Construction and upgrading is underway and I have full confidence that the
project will replicate itself throughout the country and in so doing
revolutionise youth rehabilitation policy.
Multiplied across almost 400 projects, the principles represented by the
Trust are forging a partnership for development that bodes well for the New
Patriotism that is shaping our nation. It is a practical and significant
investment in our youth and therefore in our future.
I thank you.
Issued by: Office of the President
