Scholarship Alumni

Distinguished Guests

Ladies and Gentlemen

And particularly, the new scholarship recipients

As always, it gives me great pride when I am introduced to so many gifted and worthy South Africans, young people who are committed to making a positive contribution to the reconstruction, development and transformation of our society.

That you were chosen for the scholarship award that you are to receive tonight bears testimony to your hard work, intelligence and determination to succeed. The award recognises that you have demonstrated that your quest for self-improvement goes beyond considerations of the self; you have convinced us that you take seriously the development of your country and of communities.

As I urge you to continue putting broader community and national service high on your personal agenda, I must also hasten to add that you can only make a contribution if you take your own achievements and success very seriously. Celebrate yourself and savour your achievements; and then put your skills, capacity and knowledge at the disposal of your country