Invest in the Youth and Make their Day

Social inclusion in the Western Cape received a boost with a variety of Youth Day celebrations in the main street in Plettenberg Bay on 16 June 2012. This joint effort between the Western Cape Government, the Bitou Municipality and Eden District Youth Council took the form of various cultural and sporting activities.

Local singers and dancers entertained the crowds. Ten teams competed in a 7-a-side street soccer tournament and seven teams completed in a netball contest. Winners and runners up in the junior (school) and senior categories received medals and trophies sponsored by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport.

The Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Dr Ivan Meyer said hope should not be created only for a few, it should be created for all. "Taking these varieties of sport and culture to the streets makes them more accessible to everyone, and that contributes to social inclusion." He added that his department is planning to heavily promote netball in the forthcoming year.

Meanwhile provincial Education Minister Donald Grant said education plays a critical role in the youth. "Every child must have a fair opportunity to basic education in this area, which is the cornerstone to a bright future." Hard work should be recognised and progress rewarded, he said and expressed the pride he felt about learners who achieve excellence both academically and in sport.

The festivities brought hope to many youngsters in this area and highlighted the critical role of the youth in the events of 16 June 1976. The day brought together government and a variety of social partners, proof that people work better together.