Eastern Equatoria State, on Tuesday, joined the world in commemorating the International Youth Day with calls for increased empowerment of the youth in developmental activities.
The day was celebrated under the theme “Localize youth actions for sustainable development goals.” It was heralded on Monday by hundreds of people, including youth, the business community, government officials, and other residents of Torit, who cleaned the State Hospital, markets, and other parts of the town.
There were calls by community members to advocate for increased youth empowerment in productive activities to curb idleness, which is a driver of rising crime.
Oriaja James Libirato, the chairperson of the State Youth Union, said empowering youth is important for a better future, and he appealed to the youth to embrace peace and voice the issues affecting them.
“Today (Tuesday), we are celebrating International Youth Day in Eastern Equatoria State under the theme “Localize youth actions for sustainable development goals” and beyond,” he said. “I encourage the young people of the state to embrace peace. It is only through peace that we can get whatever we want. Youth are not just the future, but are present now, and your voice matters.”
For his part, Olore Andrea, a local youth, appealed to the government and its partners to create more youth centers and friendly spaces because idleness makes them turn to crime.
“Our youth should be involved in education, and the government and its partners should create more youth centers for youth so that they engage in productive activities instead of abusing drugs,” he said.
Meanwhile, Jimmy Kilang, the interim chairperson of the civil society in the state, encouraged the youth to embrace peace and forgive one another.
“The International Youth Day is telling us that in a culture of peace, there are no problems. If I have a problem with my brother or sister, we sit down and find a solution, and when I forgive, I have to forget,” he said. “The guiding principle for youth is to do one thing; if you are a politician, be a politician, if you are in civil society, be there and remain nonpartisan.”
Francis Jeremiah, a UNMISS civil affairs officer, said they are committed to continuing to advocate for social justice, peace, and environmental sustainability to promote youth empowerment and participation.
“Why do we celebrate International Youth Day is the question. Is it to recognize and celebrate the contribution of youth to society, raise awareness on youth-related issues globally, or to promote youth empowerment, participation, and development?” he asked. “So, what is the role of the youth in today’s society? The youth must drive innovation and technological progress, advocate for social justice, peace, and environmental sustainability. They should also serve as active citizens in community development, and bridge cultural, social, and generational gaps.”
Meanwhile, Cletus Oboyi, the State Director for Basic and Secondary Education, lambasted involving learners in public occasions, saying it hinders learning. He, however, lauded UNMISS and other partners for their support to youth as change agents.
“I appreciate the support given by UNMISS because you have made this occasion colorful. These youth are victims, and I request you to advise some of your colleagues to make a change,” he said. “Some of the students you see assigned here are candidates, and when you invite them to any occasion, they are missing lessons. They should have been in class, but it will now be our problem with the youth chairperson.”