15/06/2026
From protest to purpose. From memory to action.
This evening, Hon. MEC for Environment, Ewan Botha, joined learners, educators, partners and stakeholders at the June 16 National Youth Camp Gala Dinner hosted at the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site at Maropeng Interpretation Centre.
Hosted by Robben Island Museum, an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the programme commemorates 50 years since the 1976 Youth Uprising under the theme: “From Protest to Purpose: 50 Years of Youth Power.”
The evening began with the National Anthem and Preamble and continued with reflections from partner institutions and leaders committed to preserving memory while empowering future generations.
In his keynote address, the MEC reminded learners that history should not only be remembered, it should inspire action.
“Protest without purpose is just noise,” he said, encouraging young people to identify what breaks their hearts most about South Africa and make it their purpose to change it.
He left learners with a powerful reminder:
“The history books of 2076 have not yet been written, and some of the names that will fill those pages are in this room.”
The evening also celebrated youth leadership through the 2026 Robben Island Essay Competition, which challenged learners to answer the question: “What should South Africa look like in three years?” From more than 200 entries, 9 finalists emerged and 3 outstanding learners were recognised.
As hosts, we are proud that this gathering took place at the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, a place that reminds us that understanding where humanity comes from helps us imagine where humanity can go.
