Public Protector Thulisile Madonsela addresses graduates at Grad. 2012

Public Protector Thulisile Madonsela encouraged young people to contribute to ensuring South Africa's democracy flourished during her address to School of Law graduates at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Madonsela, one of the 11 technical experts who assisted in drafting the final Constitution in 1994 and 1995, said young people should explore all avenues available to them to engage in dialogues of democracy and its philosophies.

'You have freedom of expression and you engage in social media on things such as philosophies which we never got to do in our age. This should continue if you want our democracy to continue.'

'We have a beautiful country and a constitution that is the envy of many countries. It is a constitution with solid architectural design which is set to last and has created a foundation of a democracy that is also set to last. The rule of law is not only for politicians and lawyers, it is for everyone.

'Whatever you think you can do for this country, go ahead and do it. Always do what you do with excellence,' said Madonsela.

'Some of you are the first to graduate in your family. It has not been plain sailing and some of you have even considered quitting at one stage. You have conquered yourself and believed in the power of your dreams that is why we are here today. We look forward to your leadership,' she added.