The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJ&CD), in partnership with the Centre for Social Justice at Stellenbosch University, will lead the #Action4Inclusion (AFI) Social Justice Walk in Stellenbosch op Tuesday 16 June.

The event forms part of efforts by both institutions to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Student Uprising and to observe the 30th anniversary of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996.

From Soweto to social justice

Held under the theme “From Soweto to Social Justice”, the walk seeks to honour the legacy of the youth of 1976 while mobilising society to address contemporary barriers to education — particularly student debt and exclusion.

The initiative reaffirms the constitutional right to education and promotes social justice, inclusion, and active citizenry among young people.

The annual 16-kilometre walk follows the symbolic Journey of Hope route from Stellenbosch to Kylemore, bringing together students, government leaders, civil society, academia, and community members in solidarity with young people whose educational aspirations continue to be hindered by financial constraints.

Who will be there

Notable participants expected to take part include Prof Thuli Madonsela, Director of the Centre for Social Justice; Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University; Student Representative Council leaders from institutions across South Africa; and representatives from government, civil society, academia, and community organisations.

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The event forms part of broader efforts to promote constitutional literacy, encourage youth participation in democratic processes — including the upcoming local government election — and advance dialogue op student debt as a social justice issue.