Mashatile to lead Youth Day commemorations in South Africa
South Africa is remembering the youth of 1976 and their struggle against the use of Afrikaans as a language of instruction in schools. Deputy President Paul Mashatile is expected to lead the Youth Day commemorations on June 16, 2023, in Mangaung, Free State. The theme for this year’s celebrations is “accelerating youth economic emancipation for a sustainable future.”
Youth Day in South Africa is a day to honor the black youths who protested against the apartheid government’s directive to use Afrikaans as a medium of instruction in high schools. The uprising began on June 16, 1976, with demonstrations in Soweto, Johannesburg, and spread to other parts of the country. The marches, led by students and other groups, were intended to culminate in a rally at Orlando Stadium.
Youth development
Due to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s attendance at a peace mission to end the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Deputy President Mashatile, as the second-in-command, will reflect on this year’s Youth Day. The commemoration in Mangaung will include an “opportunities expo” where young people can access real-time education, funding, and mentorship opportunities.
The Presidency stated that the commemoration aims to promote positive youth development efforts at the local, provincial, and national levels in South Africa. It is a day when the country celebrates the important role of young people in shaping its history and future. Additionally, South Africa is the first country on the African continent to host a world sporting showpiece.
Accompanying Deputy President Mashatile will be Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Acting Free State Premier Ketso Makume, and the Chairperson of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), Asanda Luwaca.
