The Congress of South African Students (Cosas) Gauteng Provincial Conference Preparatory Task Team (PCPTT) has officially announced its support for the upcoming national strike spearheaded by the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) and the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL).
Set for Friday, October 11, the planned demonstration will conclude at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), echoing the urgent need for economic reform and equity for South Africa’s youth and working class.
The mobilisation follows a week marked by nationwide protests, where citizens have taken to the streets demanding action against soaring living costs, rampant unemployment, and the persistent stagnation of the country’s economy.
William Mahlabana, Cosas Gauteng’s regional coordinator, has called upon learners and students to rally together and support the ongoing fight against economic and socio-economic injustices.
“While we understand the strike’s disruptive effects on the education sector, particularly during the examination period, we firmly support the legitimate demands of Cosatu,” Mahlabana explained.
“The strike’s primary objective – to address the worsening economic conditions, job insecurity, and social injustices faced by workers – resonates deeply with COSAS. As student leaders, we recognise that the struggles of workers are inextricably linked to the struggles of learners. The fight for quality education, decent work, and social justice is a collective responsibility.”
Monday’s nationwide strike, supported by various unions and the SACP, was inspired by widespread frustration over wage stagnation, rising food and fuel prices, and growing economic inequality.
This announcement by the student movement comes in the wake of an unfortunate tragedy earlier this week, where five children tragically lost their lives in Soweto after allegedly consuming poisoned snacks sourced from a local spaza shop.
In light of this incident, Cosas has organised a march to the Jabulani Civic Centre, where they plan to submit their memorandum of demands regarding food safety and health regulations to the regional director.
“We will be marching to the regional director’s office to make our demands known,” Mahlabana stated, underscoring the urgency of addressing student safety concerns.
In solidarity, Cosas plans to join the ANCYL’s march to the JSE.
“This bold initiative highlights the urgent need for economic transformation and youth empowerment,” Mahlabana concluded.
“As young people, we are acutely aware of the crippling effects of unemployment, inequality, and economic exclusion.”
The Star
siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za