South Africa kicks off #YouthMonth2016
Government lays out its plans for Youth Month.
The national government and the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) launched the Youth Month programme yesterday.
The launch was held at the Hector Peterson Memorial in Orlando West. Minister in the presidency Jeff Radebe and his deputy Buti Manamela, minister of Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa, and Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi were some of the government representatives who graced the event.
The event was attended by young people from across the province and the class of 1976 as well. In his opening remarks, Lesufi said language will never be used as a weapon of oppression in the country’s schools.
“From next year, we will make sure that we introduce at least one African language from Grade One in every primary school in this province. Our commitment as government is clear, we want quality education for our children,” said Lesufi.
Oupa Moloto from the June 16th Foundation reminded young people that their freedom was not free. “People like Solomon Mahlangu died for our freedom. I urge you all to protect the infrastructure especially schools. As the class of ’76 we do not support the vandalism of schools and other educational institutions,” said Moloto.
The theme for this year’s celebration is “ Youth moving South Africa forward.” This theme seeks to inspire and encourage young people to play an active role in making the country a better place to live.
Delivering his keynote address, Radebe said the youth of today should consider the government as an ally in their struggle for a better life.
“This generation has a duty to utilise the doors of learning and culture as opened by the government. As the youth of today, we urge you to grab by both hands the democratic opportunities that are now available for you,” said Radebe.
He appealed to young people to never use violence as means of communicating their ideas.
This year, youth month comes at a time when the country is faced by the challenge of vandalism of schools. Orlando High School is the latest to experience vandalism. Last month pupils went on the rampage complaining about their principal.
The whole administration block was left in ruins after the incident. Today’s event was the first of many which are expected to take place through out the month of June which has been dubbed Youth Month. This year marks the 40th anniversary since the student uprising in Soweto.
