By: Natasha Archary

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will lead the National Youth Day Commemoration in Mangaung, Bloemfontein, in the Free State on Friday, 16 June.
Under the theme: “Accelerating Youth Economic Emancipation for a Sustainable Future”, this year’s commemoration will feature an Opportunities Expo with real time education, funding and mentorship opportunities that young people can access.
In a statement issued by Presidency, it has been confirmed that Mashatile will be accompanied by Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Acting Free State Premier Ketso Makume and NYDA Chairperson, Asanda Luwaca, as well as a delegation of senior government officials and key youth stakeholders.
“The commemoration is aimed at effecting positive youth development efforts from local, provincial and national levels in South Africa.
The National Youth Day Commemoration is a public holiday and the day in which the country reflects on the massacre of school children during the Soweto Uprising of 1967.
It’s a day when South Africa as a whole celebrates the role of young people in shaping the country’s history and future.”
Every year since 1994, June 16 recognises the struggles of the youth of 1967 and celebrates the impact they brought in the liberation of the country.
This year’s event will also celebrate South Africa as the host nation for the Netball World Cup series, which has a significant youth participation in the tournament.
South Africa is the first country on the African continent to host the world sporting showpiece.
The Deputy President will lead the commemoration in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s absence, as the President is attending the World of Work Summit in Geneva, Switzerland.
Details of the National Youth Day Commemoration are as follows:
Date: Friday, 16 June 2023
Time: 09h00 (Media to arrive at 08h00)
Venue: Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium, Mangaung, Free State
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