Youth Day activities in the province

This year marks 43 years since the 1976 Student uprising when more than 20 000 pupils from Soweto protested after a directive from the then-Bantu Education Department that Afrikaans had to be used on an equal basis with English as a language of instruction in secondary schools.

Read: June 16 Soweto uprising highlights

The issue, however, was not so much the Afrikaans as the whole system of Bantu education, which was characterised by separate schools and universities, poor facilities, overcrowded classrooms and inadequately trained teachers.

The uprising tragically ended with approximately 700 youths killed by police on the day. This year’s theme is 25 years of democracy: “A celebration of Youth Activism”. It will be commemorated throughout the country.

Here are some Youth Day activities that will take place locally

* Sihlangene Community Development will celebrate the Youth Day on Monday, June 17 at Sbhulo Community Hall with a soccer tournament and picnic.

* Star Class Entertainment (Pty) Ltd will host a Youth Day celebration themed Local Is Lekker” on June 17 at Sitintile Secondary School Sport field from 11:00 until late.

* There will a youth talent show at Jerusalem Hall from 08:00 on June 16. Look out for entertainment from local DJs and comedians.

* The youth of ward 25, Nhlazatshe Number 1 will clean and paint the local crèche on June 21 a part of the youth month activities.