Government launches 1976 youth uprising 50th anniversary commemoration

The Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, officially launched the national programme commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the 1976 Youth Uprisings on May 14.

The official launch marks the beginning of a year-long government programme which seeks to reflect on and honour the sacrifices of the historic 1976 student uprising that shaped the country’s liberation struggle, and to inspire new generations of young people to advance freedom, justice and equality 50 years later.

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Chikunga said the future is in the hands of the youth, adding that they can make it work for them.

“We always launch in June, but this time we are launching a year-long programme because we’re celebrating the 1976 Soweto Uprising 50th anniversary. That’s the difference today,” she said.

She added that young people should define their own direction, with support from government, the private sector, tertiary institutions and communities.

However, she said it is the youth of Soweto who must set the agenda, reset priorities and shape what they want South Africa to look like.

Marked as a key milestone under the government’s Milestones of Freedom programme, the event will honour the courage, resilience and sacrifices of the 1976 youth by creating a platform for dialogue on the current challenges facing young people, including unemployment, mental health, education, gender-based violence and social inclusion.

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This forms part of government’s ongoing commitment to preserving the legacy of the youth of 1976 and strengthening youth participation in nation-building and socio-economic development.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said efforts are being made to train teachers and adjust the curriculum while teaching continues, adding that progress has already been achieved.

“This is the biggest achievement that we have made, and this is not the history of black people alone but all South Africans,” he said.

Lesufi added that children should learn and play together, and no learner should be separated based on race.

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Phefeni Grade 11 learner Noluthando Mdletshe said she learned the importance of preparing early for tertiary education, noting concerns about AI affecting job opportunities.

She said she is now motivated to consider starting a business and becoming independent.

Another learner, Mbaluvumani Sikhonde, said she felt inspired and now sees a future where she becomes a doctor within the next five years.