Deputy President Mashatile to lead the National Youth Day Commemoration in Mangaung

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Friday, 16 June 2023, lead the National Youth Day Commemoration in Mangaung, Bloemfontein in the Free State Province, under the theme: “Accelerating Youth Economic Emancipation for a sustainable future”.  This Youth Day commemoration will feature an Opportunities Expo with real time education, funding and mentorship opportunities that young people can access. 

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 1976. It is a day when South Africa as a whole celebrates the role of young people in shaping the country's history and future. 

Each year since 1994, June 16 recognises the struggles of the youth of 1976 and celebrate the impact they brought in the liberation of the country.

The 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. 

Deputy President 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, Ms Asanda Luwaca as well as a delegation of senior government officials and key youth stakeholders.

Members of the media are invited to cover the commemoration as follows:
Date: Friday, 16 June 2023
Time: 09h00 (Media to arrive at 08h00)
Venue: Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium, Mangaung, Free State

Members of the media covering the commemoration are requested to confirm their attendance, for accreditation purposes, with Mr Bongani Majola (Presidency) on 082 339 1993 or Ms Zimasa Velaphi (DSAC) on 072 172 8925 or Ms Lwaphesheya Khoza (NYDA) on 081 766 2440.

Media enquiries: Mr Vukani Mde, Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 081 307 9233

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria