Today, on 16 June 2025, as we commemorate Youth Day in South Africa – a significant moment when we honour the courage and sacrifice of the students who lost their lives in 1976 while standing up against the injustice of apartheid – we also celebrate the spirit of today’s youth: bold, driven and deeply committed to shaping a better future.
As I write this message, which is in keeping with this year’s theme for Youth Month – ‘Skills for the Changing World: Empowering Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation’ – I find myself reflecting on the energy, leadership and excellence consistently demonstrated by young South Africans, and especially by youth here at the University of Pretoria (UP).
At UP, we have the honour of walking alongside a generation of students who are bold, innovative and determined to make a meaningful difference. As an institution, we are committed to nurturing this potential and creating an environment where young people can thrive, lead and transform society.
I have been paying attention. Through the internet and social media platforms you hold dear, I have been seeing the work you’re doing. I see your innovation, your tenacity and your commitment to changing how we do things, and I must say: I am proud of you.
Watching your growth, creations, leadership and elevation, I am inspired to speak your language:
It’s giving… excellence.
It’s giving… future leaders.
It’s giving… South Africa, reimagined.
Here are just a few examples of young people who are capturing this spirit:
- Maikeleng Ledimo (30), a UP graduate who holds a master’s in Nursing Science (Research), investigated the role of the J88 medico-legal form in sexual assault cases. Her research highlights how improper completion of this crucial document can hinder justice, emphasising the need for accuracy to support survivors and strengthen prosecutions.
- Marione Fourie (23) is set to compete in the 100-metre hurdles at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan this September. She may become the first female UP athlete in more than a decade to reach a World Athletics Championship final. This is the kind of daring, excellence-driven ambition that defines your generation.
- Dian Meintjes (22), a computer engineering graduate from UP, developed a functional electrical stimulation system to assist paraplegic individuals to stand and walk. His final-year project, rooted in biomedical signal processing and innovative design, reflects UP’s commitment to research that improves lives.
- Earlier this year, our Student Representative Council launched A Re Ageng Bokamoso, a student-led fundraising campaign that aims to raise R5 million to support fellow students facing financial hardship. A Re Ageng Bokamoso means “let us build the future” – and that is exactly what you’re doing.
There are many other examples that I can mention to showcase the excellence and leadership that you possess. I just want you to know that your impact is felt across the University.
As we reflect on the sacrifices of the past, let us also celebrate the energy, passion and purpose of today’s youth. May we continue to empower, uplift and inspire one another as we build a more just, inclusive and sustainable future together.
You have indeed demonstrated that you Make Today Matter.
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