In paying tribute to the youth of 1976‚ President Jacob Zuma has urged the youth to make education their priority.

Speaking at the 40th anniversary of the Soweto student uprisings in Orlando stadium on Thursday‚ Zuma said the day was to celebrate the heroism of the 1976 students. It was also to reflect on the country’s challenges‚ achievements and opportunities the youth had.

“We will never rest until we achieve an equal and prosperous democratic society.

“Education remains the apex priority of government.

“We urge the youth to make education their apex priority too‚” Zuma said.

“No one must distract you from obtaining education‚” he added.

The president asked the youth to say no to drugs and those who are on them‚ to seek help.

He also condemned the burning of schools‚ clinics and other public infrastructure.

He said the youth of 1976 never burnt a single school during their protests.

“It is shocking that people burn schools‚ clinics‚ trains. No country is built on anger. If there are problems‚ they must be discussed. Crime does not build.”