Success of the SDGs depends on youth engagement

In a bid to accelerate youth participation in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the African Union (AU) designated 2017 as the year to harness Africa's youth dividend. Recognizing that Africa's population is predominantly young, the AU Commission emphasized the need to reshape economies and policies to actively engage the youth population. The focus was on creating more opportunities for entrepreneurship and employability, with an emphasis on the necessity for African countries to industrialize and reduce reliance on imports in order to stimulate job creation on the continent. Grace Mugabekazi, curator of the Kigali Hub, highlighted the importance of investing in skills and industrialization to unlock economic opportunities for the youth. One of the key challenges faced in Africa is the low literacy levels among the youth population. Studies have shown that only 5% of Rwandan youth have a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs. This poses a significant barrier to effective youth engagement in the implementation of the goals. Mugabekazi pointed out that there is a need to bridge the gap between literacy levels and economic progress, emphasizing the importance of education in driving socio-economic development. Rwanda has made significant strides in this regard over the past two decades, with a strong focus on increasing access to education for all. The government has prioritized primary and vocational training, making education more accessible and affordable for all segments of the population. The investment in education has yielded positive results, with Rwanda witnessing a surge in the number of literate young people. This demographic shift presents a unique opportunity to leverage the educated youth population for economic development. By equipping young people with the necessary skills and knowledge, Rwanda is positioning itself to tap into the potential of its youth dividend to drive sustainable growth and development. The country's commitment to education as a catalyst for change has set a strong foundation for future generations to actively participate in the realization of the SDGs. Moving forward, the challenge lies in ensuring that the youth are not only literate but also actively engaged in the implementation of the SDGs. Empowering young people to take ownership of the development agenda and providing them with the necessary resources and support will be crucial in driving progress towards the achievement of the goals. Mugabekazi emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between governments, civil society, and the private sector to create a conducive environment for youth participation. By fostering partnerships and promoting youth-led initiatives, countries can harness the potential of their youth population to drive sustainable change and build a better future for all. The success of the SDGs depends on the active engagement of young people in the implementation process. By investing in education and skills development, countries can unlock the potential of their youth population and leverage it as a driving force for economic growth and sustainable development. Rwanda's commitment to education and youth empowerment serves as a model for other nations looking to accelerate progress towards the SDGs. With the right policies and investments in place, the youth have the power to shape the future and create a more inclusive and prosperous society for generations to come.