The daunting task of dealing with youth challenges in South Sudan
By DENG MACH DENG- BOR, Jonglei state
April 14, 2016 (SSB) — Youth, is regarded as the most valuable citizens in a nation in their quest for development. As youth consists of a large percentage of the world population and as they are responsible for the smooth transition of a society from one generation to another, it gives them a titanic responsibility towards enabling sustainable development.
Hence, I believe, that it is in the interest of the development of the nation, that the youth be provided with opportunities to express their opinions on issues of policies affecting them in one way or the other. Until the youth can truly voice themselves, the hopes and needs of the youth will go unheeded and unattended. However, I do believe that our voices are respected if we youth be united before we express our views to the concern authorities, which isn’t the case for us currently in our country. We are being driven by some “big figures” in the government in order to protect their interests.
As I mentioned earlier youth, comprising a large percentage of our population, plays an essential role in the development and productivity of the nation. The sheer energy they possess and their undeniable ability for its application makes them a vastly valuable asset. However, the age group in which the youth lies is indeed an age at which we are most volatile and vulnerable, leading to many high and low risk behaviors. I would categorized the age groups as terrible/dangerous ages (18-50) life is never smooth in this category it is so threatening and discomfort, while “soft or normal” ages (above 50), the tamper here becomes low and therefore you don’t react quickly, it is the time you analyze before you act.
Hence, it is of great concern and vast importance to maintain stability amongst the youth in which their brilliant energy can be directed to lead to greater harmony and efficiency. This can only be done if concern people truly recognize “vision of, by, and for youth of the present and future society” and comprehend our problems and vulnerability. Our voices need to be heard.
I therefore, suggested some Programs that may contribute to positive elements which may engage youth in development:
Creative form of learning; Providing youth with innovative and engaging activities or curriculum helps with retention, and may keep otherwise “marginalized” youth populations involved in developmentally healthy programming. Creative activity can also contribute to overall education and skill development. Young people who are actively involved in leadership roles or in supporting their community are more likely to develop into caring and responsible adults, hence, advantage and rapid growth of national development.
Worked-based learning; Because employment is such a critical problem for young people in South Sudan, programs that incorporate some form of professional skill development and exposure to build multiple assets across a wide spectrum (i.e. education, life skills, professional skills, community service, leadership), organizations will likely experience greater success in helping young people overcome adversity and would bolster the immediate and long-term employability of youth participants, and address a major social problem.
Strong adult relationship; Without strong adult relationships that offer proper mentorship, guidance and boundaries, young people can easily fall back into risky behaviors that counteract benefits they may be receiving from activities, which will keep them involved in positive youth development activities and ensuring that their overall needs are being met hence is vital for long-term success.
Leisure, recreation and community service; are important for the psychological and physical development of the youth. It contributes to their personal development by promoting good health, personal discipline, leadership and team building skills. It also provides opportunity for appreciation, participation and creative experience in leisure, music, art, dance, drama crafts, novelty events service and cultural activities. This helps engaging the youth to make good use of their leisure time, express their beliefs and values as well as promote and preserve local art and culture for the benefit of the future youth.
However, current investment in leisure and recreation has not reflected its importance because of the current senseless conflict engaging the nation, and sector also suffers from inadequate funds and facilities while the talented youth lack motivation and are often exploited. Due to these constraints, it has not been possible to tap fully the talents of many youth.
Instability; currently most of the youth are involved in crime related cases such as robbery, cattle raiding, car hijacking etc. they engage on such atrocities simply because they are in the society they are idle. Thus if the stake holders may provide them with activities such as vocational centers, trained them on peaceful co-existence will help reduce crime.
Many more can be done to create opportunities for employment in South Sudan hence reduced crime and other related unfortunate circumstances that may be avoided through employment.
You can reach the author via his email: Daniel Deng Mach: danieldengtior@gmail.com
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