Source: The Presidency
Title: J Zuma: Launch of Kumba Resources Chair in Integrated Rural Development
MESSAGE FROM DEPUTY PRESIDENT DR JACOB ZUMA ON THE OCCASION OF THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF THE KUMBA RESOURCES CHAIR IN INTEGRATED RURAL DEVELOPMENT, University of Zululand, 18 June 2004
Pressing matters of State have prevented me from attending today's auspicious occasion - the introduction of the Kumba Resources Chair in Integrated Development at the University of Zululand.
This development is so close to my heart, however, that I have requested the Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Rachel Gumbi, to convey a brief message to you on my behalf.
Improving the socio-economic environment of our poor rural communities is one of the key areas in need of drastic and focused attention to ensure that South Africa's development strategies stay firmly on track.
The government has always maintained that the support of institutions and the private sector to help supplement sustainable development is an imperative. It is therefore very heartening to witness the formation of a potent new partnership today, giving substance to these calls.
The objectives of this new initiative between Kumba Resources and the University of Zululand fits in perfectly with South Africa's vision of surging forward towards prosperity for all its citizens. The commitment towards practical rural capacity building, the evaluation and implementation of development programmes and projects, the introduction of educational initiatives, as well as the enhancement and creation of new rural development partnerships is a welcome addition to the country's strategy to fight poverty.
The best way to accomplish this is to empower people and provide capacity. That is exactly what Kumba Resources and the University of Zululand will achieve and I salute you for taking this positive step.
The University, soon to become an even more effective player in the educational field as a comprehensive institution, and Kumba Resources as a still growing economic giant in the region, will no doubt turn this joint venture into a major success with their pooled resources.
Your joint capital and human investment will certainly reap many rewards and on behalf of all parties involved, I would like to thank you for caring about the further development of our rural communities.
I thank you.
Issued by: The Presidency
18 June 2004
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