2.1 Celebrating a national holiday

Life orientation

Grade 6

Rights and responsibilities

Module 6

Celebrating a national holiday

If you look at a South African calendar or diary you will soon see that there are 12 public holidays that have been set aside to celebrate special days, to commemorate important historical events, or to honour special people. Some of these days are Human Rights Day in March, Family Day in March or April, Workers’ Day in May and Women’s Day in August.

Youth Day on 16 June is a special day for learners at school, because the focus is on the significance of the youth of our country.

On 16 June 1976 thousands of school children in Soweto demonstrated against an unjust educational system to which they were subjected at that time. Confrontation with the police led to the tragic deaths of many of these young people. For years, 16 June was commemorated as “Soweto Day”, but now it is an official public holiday, which is known as “Youth Day”.

A young South African poet, Ingrid Jonker, wrote a poem about this event. Many people were deeply touched by it. Former president, Nelson Mandela, quoted from the poem in a very important speech. The educator can read the poem to the class.

Activity 1:

To celebrate youth day at school

[lo 2.2]

Think of and discuss special ways in which Youth Day can be celebrated at your school.

Hints:

Incorporating it into assembly.

Relevant speakers.

A visit by some young person who might be of significance to the learners.

Participation of music, dance or drama groups.

A special play produced by the learners.

Learners from other schools in your town or city.

Making posters or works of art with Youth Day as theme.

Assessment