Lesufi: Youth dropping out of school for 'petty things'
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has lamented the ease with which learners drop out of school.
"There is no way that children in 1976 were fighting for learners to be in class and in school, but now we've got a high level of those that are dropping out of school for petty things like drugs and teenage pregnancy."
Speaking at the wreath laying ceremony at the Hector Pieterson Memorial Museum in Soweto as part of the Youth Day commemorations, he said the youth of 1976 fought so that today's young people are able to receive an education.
He says, unlike the days of apartheid, today there are enough textbooks and teachers as well as improved infrastructure.
"Back then there was lack of infrastructure and teachers were not there. Today at least all those things are and it's for young people to take advantage and contribute to the need for us to have better citizens who can contribute to the economy of this country," says Lesufi.
He says the current generation is handing over the gains they have made to young people and he hopes they are ready.
"We played our part, now it's their time to take over this. I would be dead disappointed if they are not ready. It is very important that they remain in the schooling environment, respect their teachers and go through their books. A nation that does not read will be led by those who read."