Youth Day

Youth Day History

Youth Day aims to highlight the importance of young people as a vital resource for a nation's social and economic development. It is a day to focus on the challenges faced by the youth, their aspirations, and the contributions they make to society. The day serves as a platform for dialogue on issues affecting young people, such as education, employment, and health, with the goal of empowering them and fostering their active participation in shaping a country's future.

In South Africa, Youth Day holds a special significance as it commemorates the brave actions of students in the 1976 Soweto Uprising. On June 16, 1976, thousands of students protested against the imposition of the Afrikaans language as the medium of instruction in black schools, which was a manifestation of the broader struggle against apartheid. The peaceful protest was met with violence by the police, resulting in the deaths of several students and widespread outrage. Youth Day in South Africa is not just a celebration of the potential of young people, but also a recognized day of reflection on the historical struggle for freedom and democracy.

The celebration of Youth Day involves various events and activities aimed at acknowledging the achievements and potentials of the youth. Such events include educational programs, cultural performances, sports activities, and community service projects, organized by schools, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. These activities provide opportunities for young people to gain knowledge, develop skills, and contribute positively to their nation's development. Youth Day is observed annually on the 16th of June.

Youth Day Facts

• On June 16, 1976, thousands of black students in Soweto protested against the apartheid government's policy of making Afrikaans the medium of instruction in schools. The protest turned violent when police fired on the unarmed students.
• In the aftermath of the Soweto Uprising, the South African government declared June 16th as Youth Day in 1976. It serves to remember the sacrifices made by the students and the fight for equality and freedom.
• Despite progress made since the end of apartheid, South Africa still faces challenges in providing equal access to quality education, creating job opportunities, and addressing inequalities.
• In South Africa, 66% of the population is below the age of 35, 44% of the population is between 10-24 years of age.
• There can be no keener revelation of a society's soul than the way in which it treats its children. - Nelson Mandela
• One of the most tragic incidents of the Soweto Uprising was the killing of a 13-year-old student, Hector Pieterson. His photograph that was taken moments after he was shot became an international symbol of the brutality of the apartheid regime.

In the News and Trending for Youth Day

Youth Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Spread awareness on social media using hashtags #endapartheid, #youthday, #soweto and #remembertheyouth.
• Take part in the popular Dirtopia Youth Day Trail Run through the vineyards. There are different distances to suit everyone's ability.
• Watch a documentary about the Soweto uprising. Some of our favourites are The Soweto Uprising, Surfing Soweto and Generation Soweto.
• Head to Soweto to visit the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum. The museum contains photos and footage from the uprising in 1976.
• Support a youth organisation near you. Local, national and international organisations need your help to continue their mission of improving the lives and opportunities for youth around the world. Donate either financially or volunteer.