Languages: 
WSU Politics and International Relations Honours degree student, Siphesande Kotelana, has earned a spot among the 24 candidates selected to attend the 6th International Youth Think Tank (IYTT) Symposium at Stellenbosch University in August.
The symposium is a platform where young minds across the continent come together to exchange ideas, debate policies, and propose solutions to some of the world's most pressing challenges.
Participants will have the chance to collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, interact with leading experts, and gain insights into governance, peace, equality and democracy.
"I am excited to be selected from the 195 applications received. As someone passionate about politics, I am looking forward to engaging with scholars from various African countries who will be attending the symposium. This experience will broaden my perspective as I will be exposed to diverse views while sharing my own," said Kotelana.
He added that he is also looking forward to the symposium because it will be a different experience from that which he is used to of the classroom where the lecturer tells them what democracy is.
"I thrive on engagement, which fuels my passion for politics. I love debating all kinds of topics, and this platform will give me the perfect opportunity to do so, which I can then bring back to the classroom. I hope that after attending this symposium, I will be able to contribute more effectively in my lectures, enhancing my academic journey," added Kotelana.
Kotelana believes that the knowledge gained from the symposium will inspire others and contribute to the university's ongoing efforts to address issues of equality and democracy.
"I also want to emphasise to my fellow students the importance of taking advantage of opportunities posted on the university’s online pages, as that's how I discovered this one. They should also participate in the writing competitions the university often organises because many of these opportunities require strong writing skills," said Kotelana.
His participation not only brings pride to WSU but also serves as an inspiration for other students to pursue their passions and grasp opportunities for global engagement.
By Anita Roji
