The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) extends its heartfelt appreciation to the enormous sacrifices made by the Youth of ’76. We say this cognisant of the fact that despite their sacrifices, the current generation of youth is confronted with new challenges.
The onus is upon them to write their scripts in history and this can only been done by effectively and decisively dealing with the challenges facing them. The youth in advancement of gender equality has to deal with issues pertaining to abuses of women and children, human trafficking, gender based violence scourge of HIV and AIDS etc.
It is also incumbent upon the youth that behind every right that they aspire to have, it should be followed by an equal reaction in terms of responsibilities. These responsibilities should be in line with the Constitution of our country as this would elevate their status in society just as the youth of ’76 who strived to have rights and freedom. “Through our Public Education and Information Department we have developed an outreach programme that is geared into addressing issues of gender based violence and sexual harassment both in schools and institutions of higher education respectively.
We are of the view that through this intervention, plentiful of youth would be capacitated. A better society based on the respect of others’ human rights and tolerance would be created”, said Mfanozelwe Shozi, Chairperson of the Commission for Gender Equality.
In celebration of this momentous day, lest the current youth forget the journey ahead and its many challenges. It is in them to ensure that a society free from gender oppression and inequality is realised by living the ideals of the youth of those who sacrificed their lives in the past.
