President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the first sitting of the National Convention at the University of South Africa’s (Unisa) main campus in Pretoria on Friday. The two-day citizen-led debate has convened over a thousand delegates from government, civil society, business, and community sectors, all united in their commitment to explore innovative solutions for the betterment of all South Africans.
President Ramaphosa referred to the National Convention as a unique platform for open, respectful, and constructive dialogue. “Today marks the first sitting of the National Convention of the National Dialogue, a space where we confront our realities openly,” he stated strongly. He stressed that this initiative goes beyond party politics, presenting an opportunity for collective national engagement in defining the social compact that will delineate the roles and responsibilities of citizens, state institutions, businesses, trade unions, traditional leaders, religious organisations, civil society, and activists.
“Our task is to prepare for the thousands of public dialogues that will happen in communities across the country over the next six to eight months,” Ramaphosa continued. He emphasised that this dialogue is not merely an event but a catalyst for citizens to take responsibility for their future. The dialogues aim to address local challenges, ensuring that voices from every corner of the nation are heard and considered in shaping South Africa’s future.
Echoing the President’s sentiments, Unisa’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Puleng LenkaBula, described the National Convention as a pivotal moment in the country’s history. “Today is a day in which we set a process in motion to define the future that we South Africans, the world, and the people of goodwill would want for us,” she remarked. LenkaBula also underscored the importance of building consensus on a vision that represents the collective aspirations of the nation.
As excitement built around the discussions, the day was not without its challenges. Earlier proceedings were briefly halted due to a medical emergency following a woman collapsing amidst the crowd, necessitating immediate attention from paramedics. Thankfully, swift action was taken, allowing the Convention to resume its vital conversations.
With the National Convention underway, South Africans are poised to embark on an unprecedented journey of dialogue, bringing together diverse voices as they sculpt a future that reflects the dreams and aspirations of its citizens.