Same Nzima's image take in 1975 during students uprising against bantu education.
The 49th Youth Day celebrations saw various political parties rallying their supporters around youth unemployment and quality education in South Africa. EFF leader Julius Malema called on South African youth to follow in the footsteps of the 1976 youth by fighting for quality education and the country’s future. He said young people should seek free education and free access to the internet in schools. The party held its Youth Day commemoration in King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal.
Speaking in Mahushu, near Hazyview in Mpumalanga, DA leader John Steenhuisen said government has a duty to create economic growth and opportunities for young people. The party’s Youth Day celebration began with a march to pay tribute to young people who lost their lives in 1976. He said South Africa needs a change in government to move forward, citing the ANC’s 30 years of failed leadership as a reason to vote them out.
DA’s Mpumalanga Youth League member, Kuswakele Mndawe, said government should prioritize employment for young people. Mndawe further said the goal is to create more jobs in the province by implementing policies that equip young people with practical skills, enabling them to secure employment and contribute meaningfully to various sectors.
Meanwhile, Mike Mabuyakhulu, ANC’s KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Task Team Coordinator, believes the youth hold the key to the party’s future. He said youth should be at the forefront of leading the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal. Mabuyakhulu was speaking in Durban in celebration of Youth Day.
Build One South Africa Movement (BOSA) leader Mmusi Maimane emphasized the need for government investment in youth computer skills development. Maimane said many young people, especially in rural areas, still struggle with accessing quality education, and he advocates for initiatives like robotics and computer labs in schools to level the playing field and enable youth to compete globally.
Umkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP) leader Jacob Zuma expressed faith in the youth, stating they are on track to lead the country’s liberation. Zuma was speaking at the party’s youth league launch in Clermont, KwaZulu-Natal.
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