Written by Abraham Solomon
In our world today, many factors are thwarting young people from realizing their dreams and actualizing their potentials. At our April Edition of the Monthly Hangout with the Diplomatic Community hosted by the Sweden Embassy in Abuja, we discussed the global challenges to development which affect the young people.
As young people, we need to take responsibility in identifying localized solutions to solving social problems in your respective community and spaces- Dr Samson (UNFPA)
This was an opportunity for young passionate SDGs Champions to engage with the brilliant guest speaker Dr. Samson from The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) who provided useful 21st Century information to change the mindset and perceptions of young people while exposing young people to the limitless opportunities that exist within and beyond the Civil Society Organisation Space and International Agencies. Dr. Samson in the course of the 3-hours meeting encouraged participants to take responsibility in identifying localized solutions to solving social problems in their respective community and spaces.
The prospects of young people in recent times have plummeted especially with the critical shortfall in employability skills which reduces their chances for a meaningful career. With the birth of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which established that young people are a driving force for development – but only if they are provided with the skills and opportunities needed to reach their potentials, and contribute to peace and security. One way of doing this would be by implementing an economic citizenship strategy for young people that would help national policy-makers and leading youth-serving organizations to achieve many of the SDGs and sub-targets in the drive to create a viable economic and social system for the future.
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The Embassy Hangout came to a close with the steep realization that achieving the 2030 agenda relies not only on setting goals but also on a responsive approach to the voice and needs of young people who must be given a chance and entrust with the steering wheels for sustainable development impact. By equipping young people with skills, knowledge, and confidence in their abilities, there is a real chance that global leaders can harness the potential of young people to reach the Agenda 2030 before the stipulated expiration.
Together we can work towards creating a generation of empowered young people and support long-term sustainable development through continued collaborative partnerships and efforts of “Leaving No One Behind”.
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Abraham Solomon is the Editor for the Nigerian Youth SDGs Network Newsletter, the CHRONICLE. A monthly publication chronicling the efforts of young Nigerians towards meeting the Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
