EMALAHLENI – The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) conducted a campus activation at Nkangala TVET College's Witbank Campus on 10 June 2026 to encourage active citizenship and democratic participation among young people.
The activation formed part of the national commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Youth Uprising. Through the initiative, GCIS sought to honour the legacy of the youth of 1976 by empowering today's generation with information and opportunities to participate meaningfully in South Africa's democracy.
The programme featured the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), which engaged students on the importance of voting and participating in democratic processes. The IEC also provided on-site voter registration services, allowing eligible students to register, verify their registration status and update their details.
GCIS representative Patricia Matsila said the activation formed part of efforts to empower young people through access to information and encourage them to exercise their democratic rights.
“As we commemorate 50 years since the 1976 Youth Uprising, it is important to empower the youth of today with information that enables them to participate meaningfully in democracy,” said Matsila.
“We invited the IEC to guide students through the voter registration process, assist those who are not yet registered and help them identify their voting stations. Through initiatives like these, we are ensuring that young people understand the importance of their voice and their role in shaping the future of the country.”
Students welcomed the initiative, saying it highlighted the importance of civic responsibility and active citizenship.
Nkangala TVET College N6 student Ruth Nxumalo expressed appreciation for the programme and its focus on youth empowerment.
“We thank GCIS for visiting our campus during Youth Month to educate and encourage us to participate in the upcoming local government elections,” she said.
“As young people, we are sometimes reluctant to get involved in matters that affect our future. This programme has shown us the importance of voting and making our voices heard. It is a valuable opportunity for us to become active participants in our democracy.”
Caption: Students at Nkangala TVET College's Witbank Campus register and verify their voter details during a GCIS campus activation held in partnership with the IEC as part of Youth Month commemorations.
