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7 March 2008

The Department of Home Affairs today announced the launch of its 'ID Yourself' campaign aimed at motivating young people, especially 16 year olds and grade 12 learners to apply for their ID documents. The event will also launch the partnership between the Public Service Broadcaster (SABC), the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), the Department of Education and the National Youth Commission (NYC) in a drive to raise awareness about the importance of having an ID document.

The SABC conceptualised the ID campaign, under the organisation's Green Revolution Project which aims to empower the citizens of the country through partnership and conversation concerning social issues. "As the SABC, we are mindful of the need as the Public Service Broadcaster, to assist in campaigns of national importance. It is imperative that all learners, especially those in Grade 12, be in possession of a valid ID, as it is a passport to a better life socially and economically," commented SABC CEO, Advocate Dali Mpofu.

Speaking at Guguletu Sports Centre, NY1 Western Cape, where she presented 200 learners from local schools with their new ID documents, the Minister of Home Affairs, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula said, "It is imperative that the youth of South Africa apply for their ID documents as soon as they turn 16, and we aim to facilitate as easy and effective a process as possible. This is part of our national effort to ensure a better life for all. Young people in their teens need to have access to information that empowers them to be in control of their destiny, obtaining the green bar-coded ID is essential to this. With this document they are able to benefit from the advantages due to all South African citizens including access to learning, government support, travel and many other opportunities."

Over the next few months, the Department of Home Affairs with the support of its key partners will deploy mobile units to schools across the country as part of its outreach programme. All eligible learners aged 16 and older will benefit from on-site assistance with their ID applications, getting information on the new process of the late birth registration, re-issues and other related matters.

This means that they will be able to register, using their ID numbers for their final examinations and for tertiary educational institutions. They will also be able to apply for bank accounts, bursaries, student loans and driver's licenses. For those who are in need, their ID document means that they will be able to benefit from government and socio-economic programmes that provide the support and assistance they require. Most importantly, an ID gives citizens the power to vote in elections.

For learners wanting to register for their ID documents the process is as follows:

* Take two ID photographs and a copy of your birth certificate to your nearest home affairs office or the mobile unit when it visits your area
* Get the officer in charge to take your fingerprints and submit your photographs and birth certificate along with the form
* Wait for a Short Messaging Service (SMS) from home affairs confirming that they have received your application
* Remember to keep your receipt because it will enable you to track and trace the progress of your application through the SMS by sending your ID number to 32551 or calling the toll-free number 0800 60 11 90
* If you don't have a birth certificate ask your parents or relatives to accompany you to apply for one. You will need to follow the late registration of birth application process at your nearest home affairs office which will assist you with this information.

For more information contact:
Cleo Mosana
Ministerial Spokesperson
Cell: 082 902 8796

Mantshele wa ga Tau
Acting Director: External Communications
Cell: 082 802 4814

Issued by: Department of Home Affairs
7 March 2008