Day of the African Child 

The Day of the African Child is observed annually on 16 June. This day commemorates the 1976 Soweto uprising in South Africa when thousands of black schoolchildren took to the streets to protest the inferior quality of their education and to advocate for their right to be taught in their own language. Tragically, hundreds of children were killed during the protests.

During the Soweto uprising, thousands of brave black schoolchildren courageously took to the streets to protest the systemic discrimination and marginalization they faced in their educational pursuits. They demanded not only an end to the inferior quality of education but also the fundamental right to be taught in their own languages.

Tragically, the peaceful protests were met with brutal repression, resulting in the loss of hundreds of young lives. Yet, their sacrifice ignited a flame of determination and solidarity that continues to burn brightly to this day.

Since its inception in 1991, the Day of the African Child has served as a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of African children. It stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, symbolizing the relentless pursuit of justice, equality, and opportunity for all children across the continent.

This annual observance not only commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of those who came before but also galvanizes collective action towards addressing the persistent challenges facing African children. From access to quality education and healthcare to protection from violence and exploitation, the Day of the African Child serves as a rallying cry for change and a commitment to ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.