Stable leaders are needed
IT is hypocritical that when things are going well, we hear of certain leaders. But when they are bad, they all go on a sabbatical.
Last year during the #FeesMustFall campaign, everyone wanted to be in front of the camera or in radio interviews. But now that things are bad, no one wants to take that front seat.
I must say, the situation in many institutions of higher learning is out of hand. Buses and buildings are burnt, universities are rendered ungovernable.
But still, there is no progressive intervention from those claiming to lead young people. People want to be leaders when things are going well, but do the opposite when things are bad.
It is important to note that money is not a solution to every problem students are facing.
The issue of transformation and language policy in some institutions cannot be resolved by just throwing money at the problem. A lot needs to be done.
At the same time, violence cannot be the answer. There are ways to deal with a crisis without being anarchic. It is often said our leaders don t listen, and only do so when those who have grievances take matters into their own hands. This kind of thinking has to change.
Youth formation leaders also cannot be silent at this crucial moment. For these organisations to be relevant, we need them to to be visible in the trenches with the masses, not through rallies and statements. We are tired of slogans that bear no fruit in the daily struggles waged by young people.
The youth of today have clearly defined that its mission though violence is not the answer.