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Empowering Youth for Peace and Development

Jul 18, 2024 | Articles | 0 comments

As we celebrate World Youth Skills Week 2024, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment in history. The world is changing at a dizzying pace, presenting challenges that seemed unimaginable just a few years ago. Yet, in the face of these obstacles, there exist incredible opportunities to harness the boundless potential of our youth to forge a path toward peace and sustainable development. This year’s theme, “Youth Skills for Peace and Development,” is not just a catchy phrase. It’s a call to action, a rallying cry for all of us to recognize the transformative power of young minds equipped with the right skills.

Our world grapples with numerous challenges disproportionately affecting young people—violent conflicts, disruption of education and stability, a polarized online environment fostering negativity, and persistent economic inequality limiting opportunities. These issues threaten individual futures and the overall stability of our societies. But these challenges don’t define our youth; they ignite us. I’ve witnessed it firsthand; young people have fire in their eyes and determination in their hearts, ready to tackle the world’s problems head-on. They’re not waiting for solutions; they’re creating them.

This year’s commemoration comes at a time of significant unrest in Kenya. The recent demonstrations and abductions surrounding the finance bill and an array of governance and accountability concerns revealed a poly-crisis of sorts affecting the young population. Many young people feel disenfranchised and struggle to see a future where their skills and talents are valued. This is why the government’s role in supporting youth development is more crucial than ever.

The United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2250 on Youth, Peace, and Security underscores the importance of youth in building sustainable peace. Built on pillars of Participation, Protection, Prevention, Partnerships, Disengagement, and Reintegration, the blueprint accelerates youth skilling and development. The government plays a critical role in creating an enabling environment where young people can thrive, including investing in education and vocational training, creating policies that support youth entrepreneurship, and ensuring young people have access to the resources they need to succeed.

The current political climate highlights the need for the government to address the root causes of youth unemployment and provide opportunities for skills development. This will help mitigate the factors that lead to unrest and instability. It’s about more than just passing legislation; it’s about creating a future where every young person has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

In line with this year’s theme, “Youth Skills for Peace and Development,” several key skills can be leveraged to empower young people in Kenya:

  • Digital Literacy: Equipping young people with digital skills to navigate and thrive in the increasingly online world.
  • Entrepreneurship: Encouraging and supporting youth-led businesses to foster economic growth and innovation.
  • Conflict Resolution: Training young people in mediation and negotiation to promote peace and social cohesion.
  • Civic Engagement: Educating youth about their rights and responsibilities to encourage active participation in political processes.
  • Sustainable Development: Teaching skills related to environmental conservation and sustainable practices to ensure a healthier future.

During this week, let us come together to acknowledge the potential of young individuals as catalysts for peace and pledge to equip them with the skills and opportunities to tackle obstacles and contribute to a harmonious, thriving, and sustainable future.

At Youth Alive! Kenya, we are proud to be part of this global movement, and we remain committed to empowering the youth of Kenya in line with the principles of UNSCR 2250. Join us in celebrating World Youth Skills Week 2024, and let’s continue to work together to create a brighter future for our young people.

Author: Edmond Magara

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