We meet Sipho Carneson, programme coordinator of the Faculty Houses, Faculty Sub-Houses and Class Representative System programmes, who tells us about himself and unpacks the significance of Youth Month.

A peaceful protest turned into a massacre when police opened fire on protestors on 16 June 1976. Young people were fighting against the apartheid government’s implementation of Afrikaans as the main medium of instruction at school. They took to the streets to march peacefully, but were quickly met with police brutality. Tukkievaria caught up with Sipho Carneson, programme coordinator of the Faculty Houses, Faculty Sub-Houses and Class Representative System programmes, to chat about the significance of Youth Month in contemporary South Africa.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.

I am a proud alumnus of the University of Pretoria (UP). I have been working at the University for more than five years in the Department of Student Affairs, where I manage various student leadership programmes. I completed my MPhil in Strategic Communication Management at UP as well as my honours and undergraduate degrees. I am passionate about social justice, personal and professional development, and using technology as a catalyst for transformation within society and the workplace.

How does Youth Month inspire you to promote student leadership and development at UP?

Youth Month reminds me of the courage, resilience and vision of the young people who fought for freedom and democracy in 1976. I admire their spirit of activism and their willingness to challenge the status quo. I try to instil these values in the students that I work with through the Faculty House, Faculty Sub-Houses and Class Representative System programmes. These programmes aim to develop student leaders who are socially responsible, academically excellent and globally competitive.

What are the lessons and values that can be learnt from the events of 1976, and how can they be applied to the current context?

We must remember the importance of standing up for what we believe in and speaking out against oppression and discrimination. Also, the value of education as a tool for empowerment and liberation continues to be paramount for radical transformation. The need for solidarity and collaboration among different groups and sectors of society is equally important to achieve common goals. We must also not underestimate the role of creativity and innovation in finding solutions to complex problems. Additionally, it is vital that we assume the responsibility of passing on our knowledge and experience to the next generation of leaders.

What are the social challenges that today’s youth leaders face in the era of digital transformation, and how can they overcome them?

The challenge of information overload and misinformation is a major factor. The digital age has brought us unprecedented access to information and knowledge, but also  misinformation and propaganda. We need to be critical thinkers who can evaluate the credibility, accuracy and relevance of the information that we consume and share online. We also need to be mindful of how much time we spend on digital platforms and how they affect our mental health and well-being.

The digital divide and digital literacy also pose challenges. The digital age has brought new opportunities for learning, communication and collaboration, but also new inequalities and exclusions. Not everyone has equal access to digital devices, internet connectivity and digital skills. We need to be aware of these gaps and work towards bridging them through advocacy, education and innovation. We also need to be digitally literate, which means not only knowing how to use digital tools, but also how to use them ethically, responsibly and safely.

Digital citizenship and social responsibility also play a role. We now have new platforms for expression, participation and activism, but also new responsibilities and risks. We need to be respectful, constructive and accountable for what we say and do online. We also need to be aware of how our online actions affect our offline realities, and vice versa. We need to use digital media as a force for good, not evil.

How do you celebrate Youth Day with students?

I celebrate Youth Day with students by participating in various activities and initiatives that honour the legacy of the youth of 1976, and showcase the achievements and aspirations of the youth of today. This includes attending or hosting dialogues, workshops or webinars on topics related to youth empowerment, social justice, education or leadership; volunteering or donating to causes or organisations that support youth development, education or activism; sharing or creating content on social media or other platforms that highlight the stories, voices or perspectives of young people; engaging in cultural or artistic expressions such as music, poetry, dance or theatre that celebrate youth diversity, creativity or identity; and reflecting on my personal or professional journey as a young leader and how I can contribute to the advancement of my community, institution or country.

What are the two symbols of Youth Day and what do they represent to you?

Firstly, the raised fist represents defiance, resistance and solidarity. For me, it symbolises the courage and determination of the youth who stood up against apartheid and oppression. It also reminds me of the importance of fighting for what is right and supporting those who are marginalised or oppressed. Secondly, the school uniform represents education, learning and growth. For me, it symbolises the value and potential of education as a means of empowerment and liberation. It also reminds me of the need to pursue academic excellence and lifelong learning, and to share my knowledge and skills with others.