These are the words of Lieut Col Charles Ramohope, of the Daveyton Police Station.
On June 15, the Daveyton SAPS hosted pupils of Hulwazi Secondary School to commemorate Youth Day.
The purpose of the event, which was held at the Daveyton Police Station, was to motivate and educate the youngsters about the importance of June 16.
The pupils, teachers, parents and members of the SAPS were entertained with stand-up comedy provided by Motlotlo Mmusi, 2013 Ekurhuleni Comedian of the Year.
Chairperson of the Sector Two Crime Forum Lucky Nkabinde relayed what happened in 1976 to the pupils.
“The June 16 uprising was about the Bantu education system, about which students were unhappy,” he explained.
“Secondly, they marched against the forceful introduction of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction.”
A dialogue was conducted between the pupils of Hulwazi and Ekurhuleni social worker, Vhangani Makhalimela, to highlight challenges that are still faced by the youth of today.
“We are living in a democratic era, but the the youth still come across challenges that do not allow them to succeed,” said Makhalimela.
The challenges that were highlighted included teenage pregnancy, poverty, peer pressure, crime and unemployment.
The pupils were encourage to use their freedom wisely and to take advantage of the opportunities given to them.
“Education is the key to a better future; set goals and have the courage to achieve them,” said Makhalimela.
Guest speaker Rose Maja, from iThemba Rape and Trauma Centre, advised the youngsters to speak up when they have problems and seek help.
“Know who you are and have the courage to follow your dream,” she said.
