Comrades, we have come a long way. You have demonstrated your leadership prowess by once again delivering a congress of this magnitude. I want to thank all delegates for indeed delivering this Congress as per the mandate of the members of this mighty Union.

This candle represent love to those who are infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. Let's show and give them love because to some that is the only thing they need. Lets rekindle hope and faith in their lives. Let's live our lives responsibly. Those who are faithful please remain faithful, it's the right thing to do. To those who can't abstain nor have single partners please condomise ALL the times.

I am indeed fortunate and highly favoured that today, 29 years since this revolutionary union was founded, I address you in the land of your birth, Nasrec, Johannesburg. Revolutionary greetings to the leadership, members of SADTU and Alliance at large.

First, let me express my profound gratitude for the invitation to take part at this, the 9th National Congress of SADTU. Much has already been said about the significance of this Congress for SADTU, and indeed for the entire trade union movement of our country.

Please receive revolutionary greetings on behalf of the entire 260 000 Members of SADTU who are scattered across the length and breadth of our beautiful Country, present in all our Primary and Secondary Schools, our TVETS colleges and Universities.

It was an honour to receive this invitation to address you today and to say thank you to educators, who mould and shape our future generations. I stand before you today to deliver this message about a country on the brink of hope and possibility. A country that stands at a crossroads and where every one of us will be asked to make choices to build the South Africa we want.