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As the nation marked the 49th anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Uprising, Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered a powerful keynote address during the Youth Day commemoration held in Potchefstroom, North West. The event drew hundreds of young people and community leaders, with Mashatile urging the youth to embrace entrepreneurship and skills development in the face of growing economic challenges.
In a symbolic gesture of support for youth development and healthy lifestyles, Mashatile also handed over sporting equipment to local youth clubs and schools. The donation, which included soccer balls, netball kits, and training gear, was warmly received by young athletes and community sports leaders.
“Sport not only builds discipline and unity, it also keeps our youth away from social ills,” said Mashatile. “Through this contribution, we hope to nurture local talent and promote active citizenship among our young people.”
The Deputy President’s speech reflected on the sacrifices of the 1976 generation, who rose up against apartheid-era oppression, particularly the imposition of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction in schools. He paid tribute to youth leaders such as Tsietsi Mashinini and Hastings Ndlovu, emphasizing that today’s youth must channel that same courage to confront modern-day challenges like unemployment, poverty, and inequality.
“This year’s theme, ‘Skills for a Changing World—Embracing Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation’, is a call to action,” Mashatile said. “Over 50% of our young people are unemployed. That is a crisis, but it is also a challenge we can overcome through investment in education, technology, and entrepreneurship.”
Mashatile highlighted several government efforts to support youth, including the National Youth Development Agency’s grant programme and the R20 billion Transformation Fund aimed at uplifting young Black entrepreneurs. He encouraged the youth of the North West to tap into these initiatives and lead in sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, and the digital economy.
The ceremony concluded with cultural performances, sports demonstrations, and messages of encouragement from local leaders. Many young attendees expressed appreciation for the Deputy President’s visit and the practical support shown through the donation.
“Your ideas and energy are what will rebuild this country,” Mashatile concluded. “Let us unite in shaping a better tomorrow for you and future generations.”
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