Ekurhuleni - President Jacob Zuma has called upon the youth of South Africa to participate in processes that contribute towards making South Africa a better country.
"I therefore appeal that the youth be part of our programmes in rural development, poverty alleviation and crime prevention as these are a core component of youth development," said President Zuma.
He was speaking at the commemoration of Youth Day in recognition of the brave youths who on 16 June 1976 stood up against the apartheid government's Bantu Education laws.
The sacrifices made by the class of 1976 were a turning point in the history of the country and set South Africa firmly on the road to democracy.
"On this day, we also celebrate the voice of young people who since the democratic breakthrough of 1994 have taken advantage of our democracy and opportunities it created," said the President.
He said many young people have succeeded in many fields as professionals, entrepreneurs and role models working towards the creation of a better South Africa for all, while others continue to contribute to the well being of others in various ways through voluntary work and other means.
On this day, President Zuma said government also reaffirmed that government has heard the voice of youth in distress.
"We are aware of unemployed youth, those in conflict with the law; those living in abject poverty and many who seek assistance in various ways in our townships and rural villages, to enable them to achieve their true potential in life," the President said.
He said as government, it had a responsibility to create an environment where young people can extricate themselves from poverty and build successful lives.
It was for this reason, he said, that government was lunching the National Youth Development Agency which aims to advance the economic development of young people.
The day was commemorated under the theme: "Celebrating a Vibrant Youth Voice".
Explaining the theme, Mr Zuma said the South African youth have never been silent, and have always been active participants in the life of this nation. "They have always been actively involved in aspects, political, social and economic."
Also speaking at the event, Ekurhuleni Mayor, Ntombi Mekgwe called upon the youth to take advantage of the programmes that the government has made available for them.
"We call upon the youth to seize the opportunities before them by government to better improve their lives," she said.
