Reason to be positive

THERE is a lot of negativity in South Africa right now, and indeed there is pessimism throughout the world, given the events that have occurred over the past week alone.

Blame it on crime, war, economic depression, lack of humanity, poverty, corruption and whatever else that is making people despondent.

Coming back home, add to that list the high unemployment rate currently sitting at 25.5 percent.

One of the reasons given as the cause for the lack of jobs is the seemingly sense of entitlement, which stems from the initial election promises for a host of free things 21 years ago.

Those keen to generalise are quick to talk about young South Africans who want to be handed everything on a silver platter.

But, our story on Nkosinathi Duma, 28, last week not only warmed hearts and gave us reason to be positive about life, but it dispelled the general theory that the youth of this country are lazy people who want to live on handouts.

Duma is a physically challenged man who is the epitome of determination. Last week he completed his matric exams at the Hope Adult Education Centre in Wentworth.

He was born with his arms folded behind his back and cannot use them. Instead, he balances on his hands on a piece of cloth, while seated on the classroom floor.