Jacoline Schoonees

"… 16th 1976 in has played a significant role in inspiring generations of young people in the anti- struggle to take action − even at the expense of sacrificing their lives. The killing of Hector Pieterson is today firmly etched in the annals of liberation history along with other bold and brave young people who have sacrificed life and limb for freedom." Deputy Minister Marius Fransman Erratum

Joymery B van der Merwe

the cover South African High Commission Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

Dear Diplomats, diplomatic mail Dear Diplomats, The diplomat team apologises for placing the une 16 − the day that changed the course of ’s history, was declared by incorrect image of Ms Joy van der Merwe in the Africa edition of the diplomat. The image of Ms government as a national holiday in honour of all the youth of South Africa who led the Then and Now: fight against apartheid and all forms of discrimination. The cover depicts Rina-Louise Pretorius was used by mistake. editor's letter This year marked the 36th anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Uprisings and the images of the historic j 1976 uprising,while the third anniversary of the establishment of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA). use of colour represents South Africa is one of the few countries in Africa that has an agency responsible for youth the youth of today - development. The NYDA enhances the participation of young people in the economy through vibrant and timeless. targeted and integrated programmes with the focus on career, skills, job and entrepreneurship development. On 15 June 2012, DIRCO hosted a Youth Day event under the theme, "Youth Uniting for Economic Diplomacy". DIRCO also participated in the NYDA Youth Train initiative aimed at raising awareness and provided a platform for youth to engage with key stakeholders and the team communities on youth development issues. The train travelled across the country’s nine the diplomat is an internal newsletter of the

inside Department of International Relations and provinces aimed at educating rural youth about NYDA products and services. It also allowed Cooperation published by the the private sector, the public sector as well as civil society to share important information and Branch: Public Diplomacy opportunities with rural youth. Editor-in-Chief: Youth Month was commemorated and celebrated under the theme: "Together We Can Do Clayson Monyela More to Build Infrastructure and Fight Youth Unemployment, Poverty and Inequality", which Managing Editor: included a subtheme of "Youth Uniting for Economic Freedom". Government declared 2011 Michelle Greeff Editor: and beyond as the year of job creation through meaningful economic transformation and Delien Burger inclusive growth. In accelerating and providing a catalyst to realising government's drive for Creative Director: job creation and in meeting the five priorities of government, President invited Pumeza Albert the nation to partner with government in a massive infrastructure development drive that is a The history of June 16 Sub-editorS: bold initiative aimed at transforming the economy, laying the basis for growth and jobs. Mongezi Zithutha and Lebogang Maifadi Different government departments are working together to absorb young people either Contributers: Mogotsi Maleka, Jeff Mamabolo, Asithandile through jobs or skills development. DIRCO’s internship programme has been running since 04 Editor's letter Mlombile, Rosie Moloto, Lesego Molamu, 2008 and has absorbed more than 30 people in the department. The programme gives Mpho Mohale, Khaalo Selina, unemployed graduates an opportunity to gain valuable work experience. Read more in the Lebogang Maifadi 06 DIRCO commemorates June 16 Voices section on page 10 on what 16 June means to the DIRCO interns. and Mongezi Zithutha The entire route walked by protesting Soweto schoolchildren on 16 June 1976 has been Picture Editor: Jacoline Schoonees declared a heritage trail. Conceived as an open-air museum, the June 16 Soweto Student 08 The history of June 16 Photographers: Trail comprises the urban environment and historic landmarks, incorporating memories of the Jacoline Schoonees, student which took place from various schools en route to Orlando Stadium. Currently, 10 Voices from the department Unati Ngamntwini and the trail is mapped through red bricks. It begins at Naledi High School, where one group Yolande Snyman began their march, proceeding to Thomas Mofolo High School, while also including other 12 National Youth Day celebrations The views expressed in this schools in the vicinity (Naledi, Morris Isaacson, Orlando West, Musa High and Madibane), all newsletter do not necessarily leading to the Hector Pieterson Memorial in Orlando West. Read more about that tragic but reflect those of dirco or the editors. 14 Globe at a glimpse historic day on page 8. Contributions be sent to [email protected] Editorial enquiries may be sent Happy reading! 15 Newsflash to Lebogang Maifadi - [email protected] and Mongezi Zithutha - [email protected]. MG Distribution enquiries may be Michelle Greeff – Editor directed to Thembakazi Zulu on Tel: 012 351-1169 and Lincoln Mothibe on Tel: 012 351 1616

4 vol 6 2012 [email protected] [email protected] vol 6 2012 5 the Advertorial diplomat International Relations By: MONGEZI ZITHUTHA Pictures: Jacoline Schoonees

NATIONAL YOUTH POLICY (NYP) 2009 – 2014

he NYP is an essential planning Economic Development and Labour participation and social cohesion. The tool guiding the country’s approach Council (Nedlac) and the broader public recommendations that have resulted to youth development. The policy through advertisements and publication of from each of these themes will feed into containsT inherent commitments by the policy in the public domain. programme and project design. government, young South Africans and The issues raised from all these It is hoped that this will encourage society at large on interventions and dialogues and the consultation process the inclusion and active participation services that would have to be rolled were incorporated in the final draft. The of young people in decision-making out to ensure effective and efficient context and rationale for the policy are processes, policy, programme and mainstreaming of youth development in informed by the fact that, like in many project implementation. the socio-economic mainstream. African countries, a significant component It is acknowledged that for the The drafting of the NYP entailed an of the South African population is successful implementation of the extensive and rigorous process of ensuring characterised by people under the age of policy, social partnerships have to be collation of relevant and appropriate 35 years. strengthened. data on the status of youth, assessment This presents ample opportunity for the The best way to do so is to clearly of targeted youth interventions in post- youth to contribute towards the growth define the roles and responsibilities of democratic South Africa, and analysing and development of the country. the key role players and to determine DIRCO commemorates June 16 the prevailing gaps in relation to new In focusing on the needs of young South the basis for such partnerships. and persisting challenges that continue Africans, the policy highlights priority On the other hand, government will “Together we can do more to build infrastructure and fight youth unemployment, poverty and inequality” to plague some of the youth. From target groups that include young women, ensure the successful implementation the assessments made, the team that youth with disabilities, unemployed youth, of the policy through intergovernmental n commemoration of Youth On 15 June, the Chief Directorate: Gender developed the policy identified the aged out-of-school youth, youth in rural coordination. Month, the Department hosted a Youth Day Colloquium at DIRCO interventions that are necessary for youth areas and youth at risk. Given this objective, it would also be of International Relations themed “Youth Uniting for Economic development. The policy further supports the key important that capacity within the youth and Cooperation (DIRCO) Diplomacy”. As with any public policy formulation interventions that will provide for the sector is strengthened. participated in several On the day, the panel discussions, process, there was extensive engagement holistic development of youth. It is hoped that recognition of youth I activities in partnership with chaired by the Chief Director Gender, with stakeholders such as government The four pillars upon which the policy work as a profession will strengthen the National Youth Development Agency Ms Vuyiswa Tulelo, revolved around two departments, youth organisations, broader proposes specific interventions are capacity while promoting the provision Left: Guest speaker, Mr Tisetso Magama, (NYDA). The month was celebrated under topics: ''Youth Participation in Multilateral Right: Chief Director: Gender, Ms Vuyiswa Tulelo civil-society organisations, the National education, health and well-being, economic of quality services. the theme “Together We Can Do More Systems, Challenges and Opportunities''; to Build Infrastructure and Fight Youth and ''Economic Diplomacy and Youth provinces aimed at educating youth, Unemployment, Poverty and Inequality”. Participation''. particularly rural-based youth, about Limitless Youth Campaign DIRCO’s involvement in these activities Guest speaker, Mr Tisetso Magama, programmes and services offered by the he National Youth Development your time, there are limitless opportunities believe they can be anything they want to was aimed to: Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee public and private sector and civil society. Agency (NYDA) launched the – grab them with both hands!" be," the NYDA said. • create awareness of South Africa’s on International Relations, emphasised During all stops on the route, DIRCO Limitless Youth Campaign in April With this message, the NYDA seeks This campaign focuses on ordinary foreign policy and its role in youth the importance of youth involvement distributed information brochures on t2012 to reposition the NYDA brand. to address the youth as an individual South Africans who want to share their development in international economic opportunities the department and the implementation “I am Limitless” is a message with a and appeal to them emotionally. "We journeys and experiences, some of which • create awareness on career and encouraged young people to of foreign policy, as well as careers sentiment that "you have no limits, no one want people to feel like the message is have been directly or indirectly inspired by opportunities in the department take up leadership roles in economic brochures. can stop you if you really want it, this is specifically addressing them, because we their encounters with the NYDA. Source: NYDA • communicate achievements on development. “The youth must understand Government has developed plans to youth development their responsibility to the world. Political enable young people in urban and in rural • raise awareness on available foreign freedom without bread is meaningless. areas to develop themselves. The National business opportunities There is a greater need for economic Youth Policy 2009 – 2014 is an essential • raise awareness on skills transformation and economic diplomacy planning tool guiding the country’s development opportunities offered by is one of the tools which must be used approach to youth development. South African development partners to assist youth-driven programmes," Mr On 15 June, the train arrived in Port • educate the youth about Consular Magama said. Elizabeth for the 16 June celebrations, as Services Another NYDA Youth Month initiative well as the Exhibitions Galore Youth Fair • educate the youth about the role of included the Youth Train, in partnership where government departments, including the international community in the with the Passenger Rail Agency of South DIRCO, and agencies, private companies struggles of the 1976 generation. Africa. Throughout the month of June, the and non-governmental organisations Youth Train travelled to all South African showcased their products. d

6 vol 6 2012 [email protected] 7 the diplomat International Relations

The history of u n b a n n e d offices, in 1990. School government principals were almost "By 10:30am, over buses and vehicles immediately allowed to choose 5 000 students had gathered on and municipal beer halls, their own medium of instruction, a Vilakazi Street and more were arriving were first looted and then set major victory for the pupils. More schools every minute,” say Bonner and Segal. alight. By the end of the day, thick and a teacher training college were built in In total, “over 15 000 uniformed students clouds of black smoke hung over the Soweto. Teachers were given in-service between the ages of 10 and 20 (were) township, and the streets were littered training and encouraged to upgrade marching that day". with upturned vehicles, stones and rocks. their qualifications by being given study The day that changed the Once at the stadium, the plan was to Anti-riot vehicles poured into Soweto, grants. The most significant change, course of South Africa's agree on a list of grievances, and then roadblocks were erected at all entrances, however, was that urban blacks were possibly to march to the offices of the the army was placed on alert and given permanent status as city dwellers. history most a Transvaal Department of Education in helicopters hovered overhead, dropping They ceased to be temporary sojourners third language. Booysens, in Johannesburg’s southern teargas canisters and shooting. in the cities, expected to return to the t is a day violently etched on W h e n s c h o o l s suburbs. But this didn’t happen. Police The injured pupils were taken to Chris homelands, often inferior pieces of land the South African collective reopened in January formed a wall facing the pupils, warning Hani Baragwanath Hospital, some dying far away from industrial centres and jobs, conscience. Commemorated 1976, parents and principals them to disperse – an order met with in its corridors, some dying at its gates where they held permanent residence. over 30 years later as an were unhappy – some applied for resistance. Teargas was fired into the before they could be admitted, according The law banning black people from official holiday, it is the day an exemption from teaching , crowd and police dogs released. In to Bonner and Segal. owning businesses in the townships was I that honours the deaths of saying their teachers were not qualified. the chaos, children ran back and forth, As night fell, the unlit township became abolished. Doctors, lawyers and other hundreds of Soweto schoolchildren, a day The World newspaper of 5 March throwing stones at the police – who fired even more terrifying: blinded by the night, professionals were now also allowed to that changed the course of the country’s media of instruction in our schools on a reported: “Although most of the school more teargas. police simply fired into the blackness. practise in the townships. history. On that day, the Government 50-50 basis.” boards have capitulated to the medium of Bonner and Segal quote a student The students returned the fire with their But there was a sting in the tail of these and the police were caught off guard, What this meant was that Maths and instruction directive from the Department leading the march, Jon-Jon Mkhonza: own weapons: bottles and stones. The measures: the police were given powers when the simmering bubble of anger of Social Studies were to be taught in of Bantu Education, the teachers and “Students were scattered, running up and looted liquor was taking effect – people to detain people without trial. schoolchildren finally burst, releasing Afrikaans, while General Science and principals are very dissatisfied. ”Tensions down ... coming back, running ... coming wandered the streets intoxicated, in a The result was the detention of hundreds an intensity of emotion that the police practical subjects such as Housecraft and over Afrikaans simmered in the following back. It was some kind of game because celebratory mood, raising clenched fists of people in the coming months. They were controlled in the only manner they knew woodwork would be taught in English. months. By June, mid-year exams were they were running away, coming back, and shouting “Amandla!”. subjected to torture in a desire to confirm how: with ruthless aggression. SA History Bonner and Segal say one of the reasons approaching and pupils were getting taking stones, throwing them at the police The next day revealed the carnage: the Government’s version of events: that Online puts the number of dead at 200, far for this ruling was that television was to be restless. At a meeting called by student ... it was chaos. Whenever the police dead bodies and burnt-out shops and the unrest was caused by a number of higher than the official figure of 23. introduced to South Africa in 1976, and leaders on 13 June nearly 400 pupils shot teargas, we jumped the wall to the vehicles. The clashes continued, between agitators. And thousands of young people Bantu education was introduced by the “Afrikaans-speaking conservatives feared turned up, and were addressed by 19- churchyard and then came back and police and students, joined by street left the country, disillusioned with the National Party in 1954. Before that, black that it would strengthen the position and year-old Tsietsi Mashinini, “an extremely started discussing again.” gangs. Violence spread to another volatile Government crackdown and harassed by people either didn’t go to school or were status of English in the country”. It was powerful speaker”. Then came the first shot – straight Johannesburg township, Alexandra, and the police. educated in missionary schools, which fell also felt that black schoolchildren were He suggested that the following into the crowd, without warning. Other then across South Africa. By 18 June, all They never finished their education, away with the new system. Many more becoming too assertive and “forcing them Wednesday – 16 June – pupils gather in policemen took up the signal and schools in Soweto and Alexandra had choosing instead to go into military children were enrolled and the existing to learn in Afrikaans would be a useful form a mass demonstration against Afrikaans. more shots were fired. Twelve-year- been closed by the authorities. camps and receive training. Some were schools became extremely overcrowded of discipline”. Besides, the Government The students decided not to tell their old Hector Pieterson fell to the ground, Most of the victims were under 23, say then infiltrated back into South Africa – with class sizes of some 60 children – argued, it paid for black education, parents, for fear of them upsetting the fatally wounded. He was picked up by Bonner and Segal, and shot in the back. over the next decade, to perpetrate acts and the quality of education declined. so it could determine the language of plan. Mbuyisa Makhubo, a fellow student, who Many others were left maimed or crippled. of sabotage. This was part of the steady Fewer than 10% of black teachers had instruction. This was not strictly true. One pupil, Teboho Mohapi, told ran with him towards the Phefeni Clinic, By the end of the year, about 575 people onslaught against apartheid that finally a matric certificate in 1961, according to White children had free schooling, but Bonner and Segal that there was much with Pieterson’s crying sister Antoinette had died across the country, 451 at the broke its back towards the end of the Philip Bonner and Lauren Segal in Soweto, black parents had to pay R51 – about anticipation for 16 June: “They would just running alongside. hands of police, according to SA History 1980s. Most of the exiles returned home A History. The schools were poorly half a month’s salary – a year for each see us walking out of class and would try The World photographer Sam Nzima Online. The injured numbered 3 907, with in the early 1990s, to celebrate the birth equipped, with no science laboratories or child, in addition to buying textbooks and to stop us, and we would tell them, ‘Wait, was there to record Pieterson’s last the police responsible for 2 389 of them. of democracy in 1994. Lest we forget sports fields, and often no library. Many stationery and contributing to the costs this is our day ’.” moments. "I saw a child fall down,under About 5 980 people were arrested in the the day, there is a museum to keep the children dropped out of school. of building schools. The disparity in the It was cold and overcast as pupils a shower of bullets, I rushed forward townships that year. International solidarity memories fresh. The Hector Pieterson In 1976, the Government introduced government subsidy was telling: R644 gathered at schools across Soweto on and went for the picture.The photo went movements were roused as an immediate Museum, in Orlando West in Soweto, is the compulsory use of Afrikaans as a was spent on each white child, but only 16 June. At an agreed time, they set off around the world and Pieterson came to consequence of the revolt. They soon just a few blocks from where students medium of instruction from Grade 7 – R42 on each black child. for Orlando West Secondary School in symbolise the uprising, giving the world gave their support to the pupils, putting and police first began their violent then Standard 5. Circuit inspectors and Pupils, teachers and principals opposed Vilakazi Street, with thousands streaming an in-your-face view of the brutality of pressure on the apartheid government to confrontation. principals received the directive: “It has the ruling on Afrikaans, for more or less the in from all directions. apartheid." temper its repressive rule. This pressure * The information on the history of 16 June been decided that for the sake of uniformity same reasons: teachers were ill-equipped They planned to march from the school Then all hell broke loose. Students was maintained throughout the 1980s, outlined above was first published on English and Afrikaans will be used as to teach in the language, which was for to the Orlando Stadium. targeted apartheid symbols: administrative until resistance movements were finally SouthAfrica.info on 15 June 2006. d

8 vol 6 2012 [email protected] [email protected] vol 6 2012 9 the International Relations diplomat Voices from the department Pictures: Jacoline Schoonees and CELEBRATING THE youth Yolande Snyman

would provide all its citizens with quality youth of today has a mission and a vision. included 16 June 1976, when the youth motive they stood on. The youth need to education. They displayed courage and Through economic freedom, the above- of 1976 refused to have Afrikaans as a understand that for change to happen, determination to ensure that their quest mentioned aspects may be reached medium of instruction. we need to innovate it, that everything Mogotsi would be achieved. meaningfully. It is essential to emphasise Rosie Moloto Blood was spilt, lives were lost, tears is impossible until you make it possible. Maleka In 1994, South Africa became a that government is also committed to this Chief were shed and 36 years down the line, The key to put this into reality is to start Consular democratic country. This enabled the noble cause by ensuring that all necessary Directorate: here we are; honouring memories of the by being selfless and by sharing the little Services rectification of the past imbalances and programmes such as skills development, Internal Audit sacrifices our peers endured for us to enjoy information you know with others, because brought opportunities to many people. funding, information and employment are the privileges which we currently have. what is average to you can be precious to ducation is the most powerful Therefore, the current youth has a made available to the youth. The youth ighteen years ago on 27 April 1994, Youth Month strikes a chord to the youth the next individual. Eweapon which you can use to mandate of ensuring that somehow they should therefore not channel their energy ESouth Africa became a democratic not to take a seat but to go out there and Let us begin the walk today, for a journey change the world – former President live the dreams of the class of 1976 in performing unethical activities. country. This did not occur overnight . It took make things happen for ourselves. of a million miles starts with only one step, . One may perceive Youth by making use of the opportunities to Youth Month should provide inspiration, years for white and black races to reach As the youth struggle paved the way for and be the limitless youth this nation needs Month as a commemoration of the youth access education, information, youth a mission and a vision to achieve against a consensus. The journey to democracy us, we must take the lead on the positive and deserve. of 1976. The class of 1976 had a vision development funds and employment. all odds as it was the case with the youth of an independent South Africa which This could be achieved provided that the of 1976. Youth Month celebrates the heroes who for the rebirth of South Africa. Being part participated in the 16 June 1976 march. The of the group that toured South Africa’s month should be used as an opportunity nine provinces on the National Youth Molamu the nation should be mourning the death this day, with the respect and honour to tell their stories in schools and use the Development Agency Youth Train Express Lesego of our fellow South Africans but, I strongly it deserves. Instead of celebrating the media to ensure that our history never was an eye opener. As much as some Chief Jeff recommend that we should honour them heroes and heroines of 1976, the current dies. I feel this month should be dedicated youth is evasive about the commemoration Mamabolo Directorate: by helping one another and giving back youth view it as an excuse to get intoxicated to the youth of South Africa and be a call to of Youth Month, others are passionate Chief Internal Audit and use this month efficiently to motivate Directorate: to the community. I believe that the youth or to refrain from work or school, which action to unite, be empowered and as the Human of 1976 was exercising their right for makes the passing on of these heroes would like to revisit the picture when future of our country, strive for a common others about their stories of success. I Resource better and fair education instead of the and heroines to be in vain. I Mbuyisa Makhubo was running with goal and a better South Africa. The youth was touched by Bloemfontein youngsters Bantu education system of the apartheid Thanks to previous generations, we now Hector Pieterson in his arms towards the of today should rise to the challenge and who dedicated their spare time to collect Government. have access to free and fair education, car with Hector’s sister Antoinette Sithole. put the past behind them by understanding school shoes and uniform for unprivileged outh Month may be viewed as the They made their voices heard but not and full support from the Government. What an antagonising moment. that there were things that had to happen scholars. Let’s not stop here ... Ymonth in which we should all look all of them lived to tell the story or rather Should one regard him/herself as back with pride and joy to the changes reap the benefits of their hard work and an entrepreneur, there are means of brought about by our brothers, sisters sacrifices. Some were arrested, some were assistance accessible in this regard. set fires) to express their dissatisfaction take the opportunities that exist and use and parents, who gave up their lives in injured or killed and some disappeared. Government is also willing to assist the towards the malicious manner in which them to fight against the hypocrisy that order for us, the youth of today, to have As the years go by, the month of June youth financially, especially those with they were treated. exists within the world today. access to better education and to live in and its 16th day are losing its meaning academic ability but who are financially In my opinion, they managed to exhibit Their will to never give up and stand up Lerato Mohale a free and non-discriminatory society. bit by bit. The youth of today no longer deprived. All these are provided for skills Chief good communication skills and created for what is right no matter the consequence One may argue that during this month, commemorate this month, and specifically development and fighting poverty. Directorate: controversy in the absence of the social motivates me to take up the challenge of Gender media platforms of today such as Facebook, helping others who are less fortunate Twitter, YouTube and other social networks, than me. So, to me Youth Month is about to sit idle and remember our fallen heroes A startling percentage of qualified youth outh Month originated from the 1976 as all the protests were synchronised. inspiration to reach greater heights, to who perished during this month, but it is is unemployed and cannot afford to take Yuprising, when the youth of the These young fallen heroes of the 1976 create ideas which will change history, to Asithandile about what we can do as young people to care of their families. One would ask time decided to define and create their uprising are the ones who inspire me today burn with desire to succeed and be a better Mlombile ensure that the efforts of our fallen heroes the question: What went wrong? What own destiny by defying the injustices of as I stand here as an educated, determined, person and also to use what is available Branch: were not in vain. happened to the values and standards apartheid. They portrayed defiant behaviour passionate and motivated individual. Their in terms of technology to grow my ideas Diplomatic Training, Research How can we then take on the work, which the youth of 1976 tried to instil in such as vandalism (threw stones and courage and determination inspire me to exponentially and to help others in need. and Development bestowed on us as the young and the entire country? courageous lions to make a better living For me, Youth Month means striving for for ourselves? economic liberation by standing up and courage over timidity. I think of a youth as others for my mistakes have expired and outh Africans know that Youth Month It is sad to witness this month pass by doing something for myself. someone who understands the degree of a youth without responsibility is a waste Sis celebrated to commemorate all like any other, without meaning, vigour, Blood has been spilled for me to get Khaalo Selina responsibility that comes with the freedom. of freedom fought. My freedom should be the young heroes and heroines who emotions and pride attached to it. We educated and now the onus is on me to Chief Youth Month is about celebrating and practised with responsibility. The more rose against the apartheid regime, simply disregard the tremendous value carry on the good fight to better myself Directorate: honouring the memories of those whose freedom I enjoy as a youth, the greater fighting for the right to quality education this month has on the entire country. and thus giving all the gratitude to the Human actions sprang, not from their thoughts, the responsibility I bear towards others as and against the use of Afrikaans as a The struggle is not the same with our heroes of the 1976 struggle for defeating Resources but from their readiness for a responsibility well as myself. medium of instruction. We acknowledge generation. The youth of 1976 have fought an unequal education system. to fight for my freedom. Youth Month reminds me that my and appreciate what they did for our for better education, but we have to fight They have paved the way, showing he commemoration of Youth Month Youth Day honours all the young people responsibility is to respect and honour generation, for if they had not, we would for economic empowerment. Many of the us how to stand up tall and be heard. I Tis a specific time of the year during who lost their lives in the struggle against the memories through healthy freedom not be where we are today. youth are struggling to get employment or must do the same standing up with all my which being a youth is not an age, but a apartheid. practices. Youth character is built through I believe the commemoration of Youth get funds to start up small businesses on peers and fight with passion for economic state of mind. Being a youth is vigour of Being a youth is a silent message that experience and meeting life honestly and Month is a call to action – not just for us their own. freedom. the emotions and the predominance of reminds me that the time for blaming courageously.

10 vol 6 2012 [email protected] [email protected] vol 6 2012 11 the International Relations diplomat By: THE DIPLOMAT TEAM Pictures: Jacoline Schoonees and Yolande Snyman

was implemented in Ivory Park secured an additional R190 million enhance their opportunities for National Youth Day celebrations where youth and stakeholders for the current financial year. development. These include constructed 76 houses to programmes for Further Education commemorate the 1976 youth • The Department of Tourism and Training for grades 10 to 12 and uprisings. has many successful social Higher Education and Learning. responsibility implementation Young people are also provided with • Through the Department of Higher programmes, with particular skills development programmes Education, the National Student mention of the Young Chefs training such as entrepreneurial, computer, Financial Aid Scheme has ensured programme, which was launched vocational, and engineering skills, that loans and bursaries to poor and implemented last year as part including National Certificate students have been expanded of the department’s EPWP Social vocational programmes. substantially over the last three Responsibility Initiative. To date, years, and funds made available to 545 young persons have graduated The Minister said government had been students grew from R2,375 billion in as chefs and 120 have already been developing policies, plans and 2008 to R6 billion in 2011. placed with established hospitality programmes to assist in the development institutes, such as hotels, bed- of young people. It had received the draft • Through the Department of Public and-breakfast establishments and of the Integrated Youth Development Enterprises, there are currently restaurants. Altogether 300 of the Strategy and State of South African Youth 9 000 learners enrolled in training 545 have been enrolled for second- Report, produced by the National Youth processes in the state-owned level training, and, owing to the Development Agency. These reports were enterprises (SOEs), the bulk of success of the programme, another in the process of being processed and which is related to scarce and critical 500 young people have been would be presented to Parliament, he skills. In total, there are over 2 200 enrolled for the first time. said. DIRCO participated at the National engineering, 1 000 technicians and Youth Day event by distributing pamphlets over 4200 artisan students. The • In a bid to assist youth in correctional to the youth explaining the department’s plan is to increase artisans from centres, the Department of mission and vision as well as career “Education is the most powerful weapon, which you can use to change SOE training facilities by 60% to Correctional Services developed brochures on opportunities on offer at the the world.” President Nelson Mandela. 6 780 students for the coming programmes and services to department. d year. Transnet plans to increase he youth of 1976 The Minister admitted that government and empowered young people. present enrolment of 500 artisans Youth participants at Wolfson Stadium in Port Elizabeth understood this and it was was aware that many challenges remained The programme is due to begin in to 1 500 artisans. Eskom intends for that reason that on this and more young people needed access to 2013. providing apprenticeships to day 36 years ago, young economic opportunities, quality education 10 000 young people, up from people from communities and skills to meaningfully participate in • As a contribution to government’s 4 500, and implementing a youth T around Soweto began the economy. He outlined government’s fight on the eradication of poverty programme to support about 5 000 a peaceful march with the intention to contributions to address the plight of young through the creation of employment, young people to find their way into voice their views about the state of their people: the Department of Environmental employment by 2015. education. The 16 June 1976 peaceful Affairs has continued with intensified march was their contribution towards • Through the Mzansi Golden implementation of the Expanded • The National Rural Youth Service changing the political landscape in South Economy Strategy, the Department Public Works Programme (EPWP) Corps (Narysec) was launched in Africa and eventually changing the world. of Arts and Culture will use the for the environment sector. A 2011 by the Department of Rural arts and culture sectors to make a total of 459 young people from Development and Land Reform, Speaking at the National Youth Day contribution to create five million various communities have also with an initial 7 900 participants, of celebrations at Wolfson Stadium, jobs by 2020 under the New Growth benefited from the departmental whom 4 500 have either received KwaZakhele Township, Port Elizabeth, Path. component of the National Youth or are in the process of completing on 16 June 2012, the Minister in The Service. This year, the department training in various disciplines, mainly Presidency responsible for Performance • The Department of Defence and will train 206 unemployed youth in the construction sector. About Monitoring and Evaluation, Mr Collins Military Veterans, through the on environmental management 855 have been trained in records Chabane, encouraged the youth of today Military Skills Development System, to be placed in municipalities. An management, and are currently to honour the youth of 1976 not only in continues to provide work and additional 500 young people are scanning and counting land claims words but through positive deeds. training opportunities to thousands targeted in 12 identified protected files in all provinces; and about “Yours as the current generation is to of young people. This year, a areas. Another 100 young people 80, with Maths and Geography, take those struggles forward, informed by total of over 6 500 recruits will be will be trained and assisted to have been trained in disaster the conditions of today. There is no better placed, with over 4 000 in the next formulate a registered joint venture management, for placement way to confront your challenges than to financial year and almost 4 500 in to be able to bid for the provision of in municipalities. Working in confront them head on. Most importantly, the following year. Through the services in the department. conjunction with the Department you must be united as young people of National Youth Service Programme, of Higher Education and Training, all races towards your common goal,” he 20 000 unemployed youth will be • Through the Department of Human through the National Skills said. recruited and turned into disciplined Settlements, the YouthBuild Project Development Fund, the department

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GLOBE AT A GLIMPSE A way forward for the north-south corridor Celebrating Youth Month in Brussels "As we move forward, we look further than just the transport infrastructure to extend the conception of the Oda Hendler formed part of a group of 60 at the South Africa – Flanders corridor to being a developmental corridor in the true sense of the word."

who participated in the three-day summit in Joint Commission held in newsflash Brussels. The summit started on Saturday, President Jacob November 2009 under the Zuma at the Committee during the and collective will to bear in 23 June 2012, and was aimed at giving theme "Promoting and Up- 27th Meeting African Union (AU) Summit moving forward.” young people a platform to discuss how scaling Youth Volunteering in Civil-Society of the New on 14 2012, President President Zuma Partnership for Jacob Zuma highlighted they can bring about change by initiating Organisations and the Cooperation on Africa's Devel- announced the process their own projects in their communities at Youth". Ambassador Nkosi also met with opment Heads that the solutions to all the of establishing a Project of State and implementation challenges Management Unit under his home. Emile Jacobs, a South African cyclist who is Government rested primarily with member direct supervision to make a Ambassador Nkosi met the group to currently a guest rider for the Belgian club Orientation Committee states.“Political leadership difference with regard to the commend them on their achievement Lotto Olympia Tienen for a period of three and the championing of Presidential Infrastructure and encouraged them to return to South months until September. With Emile only cross-border infrastructure Championing Initiative. He Africa and transfer the knowledge and being 19 years old, 2012 was his first year projects remains a also indicated that a North- Ambassador Nkosi with Emile Jacobs, a South skills acquired during their interactions as an under 23 (U23) elite cyclist. Emile prerequisite for success. We South Corridor roadshow African cyclist at the summit. The Mission supported a has already won a stage at the National need to take full ownership would be scheduled before egarding the review on In the spirit of June 1976, the South African delegation from South Africa’s National U23 tour and received a silver medal at the New Partnership for Africa’s of the projects and work the next AU Summit to give the North-South Corridor Mission in Brussels dedicated the month Youth Development Agency’s programme, recent Elite SA Track Champs as well as r Development Heads of State tirelessly individually and further impetus to the work at the 27th Meeting of the and Government Orientation collectively to bring resources on this area of the Initiative. of June to engage young South Africans which took place in Brussels from 26 several other Top 5 and Top 10 positions in representing their country in Belgium. to 30 June 2012. The delegation’s visit local elite races. In commemoration of Youth Four young South Africans represented was part of the ongoing partnership with Day, the South African Mission in Brussels south africa got it right this time in the Security Council (unsc) South Africa at the Euro Africa Youth the Government of Flanders, Ministry of wished these dedicated individuals all of Extract from a commentary by Mr Fritz Nganje, Researcher at the Institute for Global Dialogue Summit as part of the Global Changemakers Education, Youth and Equal Opportunity in the best as they continue to represent the Programme. Baxolise Dlali, Gcobani Brussels. The three-year partnership project vast pool of motivated and talented youth Deputy the UNSC after Russia and members of the council (P5 Qambela, Lebogang Shilakoe and Yolanda was launched through a formal agreement in South Africa. Minister predictably vetoed – United States, UK, France, Ebrahim it. The draft resolution was Russia and China).” Explaining Ebrahim affirmed by 11 of the council’s South Africa’s vote, the Deputy Marimba Band from East London tours Austria and Slovenia members, while South Africa Minister of International joined in abstaining Relations and Cooperation, A marimba band from the Aqua Vista that was sourced from the from the vote. Mr Ebrahim Ebrahim, said Primary School near East London toured non-profit organisation, While Pretoria’s voting South Africa deplored the Vienna and Slovenia from 22 to 26 June Education Africa, by decisions in the council violence and tremendous 2012. This band, consisting of 10 children the Embassy in Vienna. have in recent times been loss of life in Syria, which was between the ages of 12 and 14 who come Education Africa, based in Johannesburg, questionable, its decision spiralling out of control. from disadvantaged communities, had selects a different marimba band from a not to vote on a text that “I reiterate that our highest would have threatened 12 performances throughout Vienna and South African school to tour and perform priority is to stop the killing. n the midst of escalating contain the crisis. A draft sanctions against the Syrian We feel that the only way to Slovenia. abroad twice a year and this year the Iviolence in Syria, the United resolution tabled by the Government can hardly be achieve this is through the The City of Vienna was the main Aqua Vista Primary School was selected Nations Security Council on United Kingdom (UK), with faulted and demonstrates that Annan plan for a political sponsor for the Vienna-leg of the group’s to tour Europe. 19 July 2012 failed to reach the support of other western it can take independent and transition,” the Deputy Minister tour, while their visit to Slovenia was partly The Embassy in Vienna is proud to consensus on an appropriate countries in the council, failed rational positions without the said in a statement on 20 July Deputy Ambassador Titi Molaba with the Aqua Vista Marimba Band made possible through financial support have made this tour possible! international response to to gain the endorsement of influence of the permanent 2012. South Africa reiterates its comitment to deepen relations between Africa and China Youth Seminar: Anti-child pronography, trafficking and youth development As incoming co-chair, South Africa will host the sixth Forum on China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Ministerial Conference in South Africa in 2015 at the Gaborone International Convention victim, parents and relatives President Jacob Centre, which focused on anti-child are victimised as they suffer Zuma introduces in Beijing, China, the Minister cultural and people-to- pornography, anti-child trafficking and the knowledge of the abuse the Minister of of International Relations people exchanges, and in International and Cooperation, Ms Maite international affairs. youth development. Various stakeholders of their child. This activity, therefore, has Relations and Nkoana-Mashabane, said As co-chair, South Africa participated, including the departments of far-reaching implications socially. The FPB Cooperation, Ms Maite Nkoana- South Africa would ensure that will concentrate its efforts youth, police and tourism, youth institutions, seeks to establish joint projects and formal Mashabane, to it maintained the momentum on ensuring a greater multilateral organisations such as the relations on a bilateral level with Botswana Premier Wen Jiabao during the that Egypt, the outgoing co- role for the African Union Southern African Development Community and on a multilateral level with SADC. fifth Ministerial chair, and China had achieved Commission (AUC) in (SADC) and the United Nations Children’s Their visit to Botswana also marked the Conference of the over the past few years. the FOCAC process, as High Commissioner Shope addressing the Fund, the diplomatic core, schools and beginning of talks to establish joint projects Forum on China- The Minister applauded well as maintaining close youth at the seminar Africa Cooperation, business. in fighting child pornography and child Beijing Egypt for the work it had relations with the regional In acknowledging the importance of The FPB has launched a programme on trafficking with Botswana and SADC. jointly done with China in economic communities Youth Month, the Mission in Gaborone, fighting child pornography, trafficking and It has been proposed that a regional outh africa has pledged that the FOCAC strategic implementing the fourth and the AU’s flagship to cooperate and partnership is effectively FOCAC Sharm El Sheikh programme for socio- Botswana, in partnership with the South child cyber pornography. Child pornography summit or conference on anti-child S work closely with China in implemented. Action Plan (2010 – 2012), economic development, the African Film and Publications Board (FPB) images are part of a cycle of child sexual pornography and anti-child trafficking be deepening Africa’s relationship Speaking at the fifth particularly in the areas New Partnership for Africa’s hosted a youth seminar on 13 June 2012 abuse and exploitation. Apart from the child held as a follow-up to the seminar. with that country and ensure FOCAC Ministerial Meeting of social development, Development. 14 vol 6 2012 [email protected] [email protected] vol 6 2012 15 16 vol 6 2012 [email protected]