Hillcrest Cambridge Academy held a special commemoration ceremony at Randburg Square in honour of the 1976 youth uprising on 16 June.
Escorted by Metro Police and Randburg Police Station, the whole school marched to the Square’s centre where they assembled at the events platform. There they sang inspirational songs compelling them to seek a better future for themselves. The school’s drummies group made sure not to let the opportunity pass without them showcasing their talents to the audience. Some of the children also read out poems and speeches they wrote.
The school’s co-director, Petros Lyson said the children enjoyed themselves whilst they entertained the many shoppers at the Square. “From this performance, the children learned that many laid down their lives almost 42 years ago as they were committed to a selfless cause that would help many across the country.”
He added that this helped the children realise the country’s democracy did not come on a silver platter but rather from the suffering of past youth. “This is why it is important for children to know the sacrifices that were made for them by many which brought with it the freedom we enjoy today.”
Lyson concluded the children were attached to the importance of the day and were inspired to work hard and maintain what others fought for. “They have a challenge set before which is to keep the fire burning, set by those who laid their lives for them to have more opportunities.”
