Youth Day is commemorated in honour of the young students and learners who opposed the apartheid regime during what became known as the Soweto uprising, a series of protests that began on 16 June. According to Historical and Heritage Studies lecturer Dr Abraham Mlombo of the University of Pretoria, values such as confidence, unity and defiance still apply to youth today. He tells us about the significance of 16 June.

What is the purpose of Youth Day?

Like many of South Africa’s public holidays, 16 June is a moment for commemoration and reflection. It is a significant day, not least to observe the history and ideals that the youth of 1976 pursued, but it is an opportunity to interrogate to what extent Youth Day remains relevant in the post-apartheid context and whether the ideals of the 1976 generation have been attained. Regardless of where one stands, 16 June reminds South Africa of matters concerning the youth and its promise to them.

What impact do you think this day has on contemporary youth?

The day serves to remind youth that they have agency in determining the course of their lives and those around them. They can draw strength from their 1976 predecessors by taking initiative wherever injustice and challenges exist, and make a marked difference for a different and better future. An important aspect in the pursuit of a better tomorrow remains education. It remains the umbilical cord that connects the 1976 generation with the youth of today. It reflects the need to take education seriously and attain goals that many in South Africa have been deprived of pursuing.

In essence, Youth Day calls on everyone to reflect on the significance of 16 June, and the importance of the youth and their role in contributing to a brighter future. They possess the agency to change the course of their lives for the chance of a better tomorrow. Subsequently, they too may bequeath the spirit and the drive to keep striving, regardless of circumstance, to the next generation.