Each year, on 16 June, South Africa commemorates Youth Day, a tribute to the young people who stood up against apartheid policies during the Soweto Uprising of 1976. While this day honours their resilience and pursuit of justice, today’s youth, while navigating a different landscape, faces a different but equally urgent challenge, youth unemployment.
Anele Ndimande, a final-year Biokinetics Honours student at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), embodies the spirit of Youth Day. Armed with education, practical experience, and determination, he stands at the threshold of opportunity, yet aware of the daunting 46.1% youth unemployment rate in South Africa.
“Unemployment scares me,” says Ndimande. “It’s even affecting the health sector now, which was almost unheard of a few years ago.”
As a first-generation student from Jozini in rural northern KwaZulu-Natal, Ndimande understands what it means to carry the hopes of an entire family and community. “There aren’t many graduates where I come from. Earning this degree and finding employment would not only make my family proud but also allow me to give back to my community.”
At UJ, Biokinetics students complete extensive clinical practice as part of their training. But Ndimande didn’t stop there, and he took the initiative to volunteer at a private Biokinetics practice to further build his experience.
“I realised that if I don’t help myself, I have a higher chance of becoming part of the unemployed statistics,” he explains. “Marks matter, but practical experience sets you apart. You have to go the extra mile.”
His dedication doesn’t end in lecture halls or private clinics. On weekends, he provides free health screenings and exercise sessions at his residence. He currently assists two students with rehabilitation, one recovering from an ACL knee injury and another with a chronic back injury.
“Seeing the patients improve is what keeps me going. It’s my hope that my practical experience will open employment opportunities, perhaps even at one of the private practices where I’ve been doing my clinical hours.”
As part of UJ’s commitment to global learning and professional exposure, final-year Biokinetics students will travel to Zimbabwe on 27 June, 2025. Ndimande is enthusiastic about the opportunity to share the skills he’s acquired at UJ and engage with other African health professionals.
“I’m excited to learn and grow. This is what Youth Day means to me, being empowered to take charge of my future.”
What does youth day mean to you?
Recent UJ graduates reflect on the significance of Youth Day in today’s context:
“Youth Day reminds me of the sacrifices made by young people for our freedom. It inspires me to create change. It’s still relevant because today’s youth face new challenges and must continue to be heard.”
“I believe it’s still relevant given South Africa’s past. Youth Day symbolises a major moment in our history. To me, it’s both a public holiday and a symbol of how far we’ve come.”
“Youth Day will always hold a place in society. It honours our past while pushing us to build a better future. It’s a reminder that we must shape our destiny and advocate for change in employment, education, equality, and justice.”
“Youth Day is essential in reminding us of our country’s history and in guiding us forward. It’s about recognising the struggles of the past while empowering the youth to take control of the future.”
