The University of Namibia (UNAM) and the South Africa High Commission commemorated South Africa's National Youth Day and Freedom Day in Windhoek.

The day remembers the contribution young people have made to the struggle against apartheid in South Africa and the freedom of its people.

June 16 is a day when South Africa celebrates the role of young people in shaping the country's history and future.

Each year since 1994, June 16 has been marked as the anniversary of the struggles of the youth of 1976 and the impact they had in their fight for their rights and the liberation of their country.

The date commemorates a children's protest march that took place on that fateful day in 1976 in the Soweto township near Johannesburg.

Youth Day is also known as Soweto Day.

The violence lasted for days and spread to more than 80 other cities and towns.

Pro-vice Chancellor at UNAM, Professor Frednard Gideon, says elders have a lot to tell about historical events, while the youth have a huge responsibility for shaping the future of the continent.

"The University of Namibia remains committed to the development and progress of the continent. Believe me, there is no better way to prepare for Africa's development than by including, engaging, and empowering the youth. Today's colloquium aims to do just that! As with many African countries, Namibia and South Africa share a special bond. This bond started and flourished amidst unfavourable circumstances—challenges and difficulties."

The South African High Commissioner to Namibia, Thenjiwe Mtintso, urged the youth in Namibia and South Africa to participate in youth development programmes provided by their governments.