YOUTH PARTICIPATION AND THE FUTURE OF POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT 

Akhona Maphumulo

@akhonamaphumulo9

 

As the voting periods begin, attention often turns to young people and whether they will take part in elections or become more involved in politics to influence change in South Africa. As one of the largest groups in the country, young people continue to play an important role in shaping democracy.

 

According to SAnews, voting remains an important way for young people to participate in democracy and influence decisions that affect their communities. The article states that although many young people face challenges such as unemployment, inequality, and limited opportunities, participating in elections gives them an opportunity to influence leadership and public policy.

 

While national conversations continue to encourage youth participation, students at North-West University (NWU) shared different views on whether young people are actively involved in politics and voting.

 

Tebello Monokwa, a first-year BA Communication student, believes voting is an effective way for young people to influence change but said voting alone cannot guarantee results. “I believe voting can be an effective way for young people to influence change because it gives us a voice in choosing leaders and shaping policies. However, voting alone is not enough. Real change also depends on whether elected leaders follow through on their promises,” she said.

 

Monokwa said trust in government affects whether young people decide to participate in elections. “Many young people feel that politicians make promises during campaigns but do not deliver once they’re elected. This lack of trust can make them feel like their vote won’t make a difference, which discourages them from participating in elections,” she said.

 

She also believes young people remain politically active outside of elections. She explains that many young people are politically engaged in other ways, especially through social media. They raise awareness about important issues, sign petitions, attend protests, volunteer in their communities, and have discussions about politics and social issues online.

 

Nqobile Maseko, a second-year psychology student, shared a more critical view of youth political participation. Maseko said government performance can influence whether young people choose to vote. She also questioned whether young people are always as politically involved as they claim. “I feel like the youth only act when something affects them personally, like voting because they are unemployed and they think if they do vote, they will get work immediately,” she said.

 

Maseko said greater youth representation in leadership spaces could encourage stronger political participation. “If I see the youth in parliament and workspaces actively challenging the views that have been embedded in the brains of Africans and the historical views of South Africa,” she said.

 

Although the students shared different experiences and expectations, both linked youth participation to trust, representation, and the belief that political involvement should lead to visible change.

Electoral Commission of South Africa ballot box (Source: IEC).

 

Edited by Isabel Burgers