[SAFM] The Reality Check Series - Day 4: Young people and the national Question: forging belongingness and shared national identity through inclusion, active citizenship and structured support

On the fourth day of Reality Check, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Youth Uprising, Professor Madlingozi focused on the role of young people in resolving South Africa’s National Question and building a more united future.

He argued that many young South Africans continue to experience a sense of exclusion and uncertainty, shaped by intergenerational poverty, unemployment, inequality and social marginalisation. At the same time, he noted that young people remain hopeful and deeply invested in shaping a better future, often engaging in activism and civic life outside traditional political structures.

Madlingozi stressed that meaningful nation-building must begin with creating environments in which young people can develop a strong sense of belonging and citizenship. This starts in families and communities, but also requires safe, inclusive and well-resourced schools that promote constitutional values, mutual respect and a deeper understanding of South Africa’s history.

He highlighted the importance of constitutional literacy, anti-discrimination initiatives, learner rights programmes and a renewed emphasis on history education as tools for fostering social cohesion and democratic participation. A new history curriculum, he noted, seeks to strengthen understanding of Africa’s past, South Africa’s liberation struggle and the challenges of the democratic era.

Beyond homes and schools, Madlingozi called for greater inclusion of young people in decision-making processes and public life. He also emphasised the need for stronger support programmes that expand access to education, employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.

He concluded that South Africa cannot build a cohesive and thriving nation while large numbers of young people remain excluded from education, employment and training. Investing in young people, he argued, is essential to the project of nation-building and the creation of a genuinely post-apartheid society.

Listen to the full interview here: