GUEST: Dr. Leila Demarest -Associate Professor, Institute of Political Science, Leiden University

Ten years after the transition from military to democratic rule, the Nigerian government made civic education mandatory in primary and secondary schools. The curriculum covers issues such as Nigeria’s independence, the structures of the state, civic rights, political parties and national unity. It also covers corruption and clientelism (the exchange of political support for economic benefits).

Democratic consolidation is a continuing struggle, in Africa as elsewhere. The turn to democracy gained momentum in Africa in the late 1980s and early 1990s but has petered out since. Can new generations turn the tide?

 The need to prepare young people to become democratically minded is well established. In western societies, school-based civic education has been considered the means to do it since as early as the 1960s. The assumption is that better knowledge about the democratic functioning of the state promotes stronger democratic values and norms. It is also thought to increase trust in institutions and a willingness to participate in politics in the future.

 GUEST: MoAfrika Wa Mokgathi – PoeComSto’s chairperson

South Africa's vibrant traditions of poetry, comedy, and storytelling now have a powerful new advocate. The recently launched *PoeComSto Council*, established under the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, aims to transform these underrepresented art forms by providing structure, support, and opportunities. Born from nationwide consultations, the council will nurture talent, preserve cultural heritage, and help artists build sustainable careers through training, performance platforms, and market access. With its official launch in August 2025, PoeComSto represents a bold step toward empowering creatives and strengthening South Africa's creative economy—ensuring these vital art forms thrive for generations to come.

GUEST: Tsakani Mkhari, Spokesperson for Hope Givers Foundation.

The Hope Givers Foundation, powered by Brand South Africa, recently hosted the 8th Annual Raising Legends Awards, celebrating men who are transforming lives and redefining masculinity in South Africa. The event honored individuals making meaningful contributions in combating gender-based violence, mentoring young men, and uplifting communities. 

GUEST: Regine le Roux, founder of Re.Bag.Re.Use,

Turning trash into treasure isn’t just an environmental act—it’s an act of hope. In this interview, Regine le Roux, founder of Re.Bag.Re.Use, shares how a simple idea—crocheting plastic bread bags into functional art—has grown into a movement empowering South African women. From saving over 144,000 bags from landfills to creating economic opportunities for mothers and daughters, Regine reveals how creativity transforms both waste and lives.