South Africa–China Youth Partnership Spotlighted at New Book Launch
South Africa’s young people have been called upon to play a central role in shaping the future of the country and the broader Global South, as leaders continue to strengthen cooperation within the BRICS partnership.
Speaking on the sidelines of the launch of Xi Jinping and China-South Africa Relations: The Gen Z Youth Perspective at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research International Convention Centre in Pretoria, Deputy Minister of the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Steve Letsike, highlighted the importance of youth development, education, innovation and international cooperation in driving economic growth and social transformation.
In an interview with TV BRICS Africa, Letsike shared her vision for a future in which young people are not merely beneficiaries of development programmes but active architects of change. “The future of South Africa and the future of BRICS belong to young people,” Letsike said. “They must be equipped with the education, skills and opportunities needed to solve today’s challenges and create tomorrow’s solutions.”
The launch of the publication brought together government representatives, academics, students and young leaders to discuss the evolving relationship between South Africa and China through the eyes of Generation Z. The book explores how young people view bilateral relations and the opportunities emerging from cooperation between the two countries. Letsike stressed that youth empowerment must remain at the heart of development strategies across the BRICS bloc. She noted that investments in education, technology, entrepreneurship and innovation would be critical in ensuring that young people can compete in an increasingly interconnected global economy. “Human infrastructure is just as important as physical infrastructure,” she said. “When we invest in young people, we invest in the future prosperity of our nations.”
She also highlighted the growing significance of BRICS as a platform for collaboration among developing countries. Through partnerships in science, technology, education and skills development, she said member states can create pathways for sustainable growth and shared prosperity.According to Letsike, young people have a unique perspective on global challenges, including climate change, unemployment, digital transformation and social inequality. “We need young voices at decision-making tables,” she said. “Their creativity, innovation and energy are essential if we want to build inclusive societies and stronger economies.”
The Deputy Minister further praised the role of cultural and educational exchanges between South Africa and China, saying they provide valuable opportunities for young people to learn from one another and strengthen people-to-people ties. As BRICS continues to expand its global influence, she believes the next generation will play a decisive role in shaping its direction. “The Global South is rising, and young people must be at the forefront of that rise,” Letsike said. “They are not the leaders of tomorrow only they are leaders today.”
The discussion comes at a time when South Africa is placing increased emphasis on youth empowerment, innovation and international partnerships as drivers of economic development. For many young South Africans, the message was clear: the future of BRICS, and indeed the future of the Global South, will be shaped by those willing to innovate, collaborate and lead.
