ZASTRON YOUTH MARCH AGAINST DEPARTMENT OF LABOUR

Photo: Zastron Youth Protest

By: Neo Ntsele

The enraged youth of Zastron- Matlakeng took to the streets holding placards and chanting struggle songs to express their grievances against the department of labour in the vicinity.

The peaceful protest was on Wednesday 02 July, it commenced at Matlakeng Library to the labour office in town.

It is alleged that the department of labour is unfairly treating the youth of Zastron by excluding them in job opportunities despite having relevant qualifications.

The aim of the protest was to hand over a memorandum of demands from the youth forum to the chief director at the department, with the hope of changing the status quo.

Andile Voko from Zastron Youth Forum reiterated that they will not allow corruption to prevail at the area that is already facing high unemployment.

"We are fighting against corruption and discrimination against the youth of Zastron. About 5 posts were advertised with the requirements being Grade 12 and zero experience. From those positions none of the youth from Zastron were shortlisted, all positions were given to people residing out of Zastron/ Mohokare. We heard allegations that the deputy director also hired his biological daughter, disregarding the department's policies and the youth of this town", said Voko.

The memorandum of demands raised several issues with corruption, nepotism and discrimination at the fore.

The memorandum was accepted and signed by the deputy chief director at the Zastron centre.

A response to the demands is expected to be given after 7 days by the chief director.