Deputy Basic Education Minister Reginah Mhaule will on Friday commemorate the International Day of the Boy Child at Jeppe High School for Boys.
The day aims to highlight challenges faced by boys globally, while also promoting mentorship, mental health support and education.
The Department of Basic Education says the commemoration will focus on helping boys develop into responsible and empathetic adults.
Acting Director of Communications Terence Khala says societal expectations continue to negatively affect young boys.
“Evidence has shown the negative effects of rigid masculinity, particularly on young boys. Societal norms have often conditioned young boys and desensitized them, often forcing young boys to suppress emotions and vulnerability,” Khala says.
“The Department and its partners will leverage the International Day of the Boy Child as a commemoration to address the systemic educational, psychological as well as social challenges facing boys.”
The department says the event will place emphasis on positive masculinity and creating supportive environments for boys in schools and communities.
According to the Department of Basic Education, the 2026 commemoration includes themes such as “Flourish & Thrive”, “Raising Boys of Value and Purpose”, and “Breaking the Silence: Boys and Mental Health.”
The department says the event will include learners from several schools, including learners with special education needs, while hundreds more are expected to participate online from across the country.
Scouts South Africa has linked to the International Day of the Boy Child, saying the commemoration promotes leadership, inclusion and positive development among boys.
Mhaule also used the occasion to encourage greater support for boys and their wellbeing.
“Let’s support them with love, not pressure. Let’s care for them with presence, not perfection,” Mhaule said in a message marking the day.
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