Chairperson and hon members, the Batho Pele principles should be the cornerstone of the Department of Social Development in respect of the lives of our people. Social Development and Social Services are twin sisters. Their principles are so similar that nobody can separate the two.
The UCDP agrees that everyone should be educated, trained and involved in all these social developments. Rural people in the villages should be exposed to training by experts who know practical work thoroughly. Society must learn to create jobs after they have had training and follow-ups should also be made. People must be trained in the type of projects they enjoy being involved with and which they can do best.
The UCDP asks, "Where is Vukuzenzele?" "Tsoga o itirele." [Wake up and do it yourself.] It is not practised nowadays. Grants are offered specifically to teenagers who have babies and who are supposed to be at school. Social Development's intention will fail if the government continues with this system. The UCDP believes that receiving a grant encourages laziness among our young people. The UCDP appreciates the efforts made and supports the Bill. Thank you.