Vhembe – Voting gives hope to rural Vhembe, Limpopo youths, where jobs are scarce.
On Wednesday, The Bulrushes spoke to some young people in Vhembe after they voted.
Many said joblessness was the biggest challenge they were facing.
These young people said they hoped for a change of fortunes after the elections.
Jobless mother of two Millicent Mawela, a 28-year-old Tshikhudini village resident outside of Thohoyandou, completed her Grade 12 at Azwifarwi Secondary School in 2014.
She also possesses a computer literacy certificate, but she has never been employed.
“I am always applying for jobs which I qualify for, but I have never been called or even shortlisted for any of those positions,” said Mawela.
“I am growing old, and I have two children whom I need to look after, but it is difficult without a job.”
Mawela, who voted early in the morning in Vhembe, said she was hopeful more job opportunities would be created after the elections.
“I made sure that I voted as I believe that my vote has the power to make a change in my life and my children,” said Mawela.
“I am confident that more jobs will be created after this, and I will be among those employed.
“Our local government must create jobs for us as the youth.”
Another jobless young person, 24-year-old Lufuno Mudzanani holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of South Africa (Unisa).
Mudzanani said that she has been looking for a job for the past three years without any success.
She resides in Lufule village, outside of Thohoyandou.
Mudzanani said she “does not believe much in politics”, but remains confident that her vote and those of other unemployed youth can bring positive change to their lives.
“Though I do not understand very well how politics works, I believe that the political party which I have voted for will bring a positive change by creating more jobs for both graduates and those who do not have qualifications,” said Mudzanani.
She said she voted for the political party, which she believes will end corruption and nepotism within government departments.
“One of the reasons why we are struggling to find jobs is corruption within government officials,” asserted Mudzanani.
“Those people are selling jobs, especially teaching ones and if you do not have money, it becomes impossible to find a job.
“Or if you do not know anyone who works within government departments it also becomes impossible to be hired.”
Statistics South Africa indicates a 45,5% unemployment rate among young individuals (aged 15-34 years).
Patrick Mulovhedzi said he has been without a job since he left his last teaching assistant post at a school in Vhembe.
The 27-year-old said he has a teaching qualification from the University of Venda.
He said he had mixed feelings about voting because he was “not sure it would make a difference”.
Voting stations close at 21:00 (9 pm) tonight.
