The City of Tshwane has commemorated Youth Day by paying tribute to the Class of 1976 while acknowledging the challenges facing young people in 2026, including unemployment and limited access to skills development and work opportunities. The city said the day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the youth of 1976 and the responsibility to create opportunities for the current generation.
In a Youth Day message, Executive Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya highlighted the changing economic landscape and the need to equip young people with practical skills and pathways to employment. She encouraged Tshwane’s youth to take advantage of opportunities aimed at improving their prospects and participation in the economy.
The mayor pointed to the city’s Ithuba Youth Economic Development Programme as a key intervention designed to bridge the gap between young people and economic opportunities. Ithuba, which means “a chance”, focuses on skills development, entrepreneurship support, internships, work-readiness programmes and access to employment opportunities.
“We are proud as the City of Tshwane to have a dedicated programme, Ithuba, that aims to bridge this gap and provide skills and work opportunities,” Moya said.
She added: “I encourage the youth of Tshwane to visit the Ithuba Youth Economic Development Programme portal and make use of the opportunities available. To the youth of 2026, this is your chance.”
The City of Tshwane said the commemoration not only honours the legacy of the 1976 generation but also reinforces the importance of empowering today’s youth through education, skills development and economic inclusion.
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