LGSETA Supports National Youth Voter Registration Campaign Ahead of Local Government Elections

As South Africa prepares for the upcoming Local Government Elections, the Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA), in partnership with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and Higher Health, participated in the launch of the National Youth Voter Registration Campaign in KwaZulu-Natal on 31 July 2026.

The campaign aims to encourage young people to register to vote while promoting active citizenship, civic responsibility and meaningful participation in South Africa’s democracy. Bringing together government, education institutions and skills development partners, the initiative also highlighted the important connection between education, informed decision-making and nation-building.

Hosted at Majuba TVET College, the launch attracted students from the college, neighbouring TVET institutions and learners from eight high schools in the Madadeni area. The event provided young people with an opportunity to engage directly with government departments, SETAs and higher education stakeholders, while accessing information on career pathways, funding opportunities, skills development programmes and voter registration.

Opening the programme, Principal of Majuba TVET College, Dr S.J. Mlotshwa, encouraged students to recognise the power of their voices and participate in shaping the country’s future through the democratic process. He also expressed his appreciation to the government entities, partner organisations and the South African Police Service (SAPS) for supporting the successful delivery of the campaign.

Building on this message, Higher Health emphasised the importance of civic education by equipping young people with a deeper understanding of the Constitution, democratic values, citizens’ rights and responsibilities, and the significance of participating in elections. The organisation reaffirmed that an informed and engaged youth population is essential to strengthening South Africa’s democracy.

The student perspective was equally compelling. Addressing attendees, President of the BRICS Student Commission, Mr Siqiniseko Shabalala, encouraged young people to become active participants in shaping policies that affect their lives.

“You are the leaders of tomorrow, and democracy depends on active citizens, not passive observers.”

His message reinforced the campaign’s central objective of inspiring young people to recognise that their voices and their votes have the power to influence meaningful change.

The event also celebrated student success through inspiring testimonials from former Majuba TVET College graduates Mr Thabiso Lokothwayo and Ms Nosipho Langa, who both graduated with distinctions. Reflecting on their academic journeys, they highlighted the importance of mental health support, student funding, mentorship and the guidance they received throughout their studies, encouraging current students to remain focused on achieving their goals.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Honourable Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, encouraged learners to explore the diverse opportunities available within South Africa’s Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system. She highlighted the important role of universities, TVET colleges and Community Education and Training (CET) colleges in addressing the country’s skills needs, while encouraging young people to develop entrepreneurial skills, embrace innovation and contribute to economic growth.

She further encouraged learners to visit the exhibition stands, where SETAs, government departments, TVET colleges and other stakeholders shared information on career guidance, funding opportunities, workplace learning programmes and skills development initiatives, enabling participants to make informed decisions about their education and future careers.

LGSETA’s participation in the National Youth Voter Registration Campaign reflects the organisation’s commitment to empowering young people through both skills development and active citizenship. By supporting initiatives that combine career guidance, civic education and stakeholder collaboration, LGSETA continues to strengthen the Post-School Education and Training sector while helping to develop informed, engaged citizens who will contribute to stronger communities, responsive local government and South Africa’s democratic future.