Youth report
Young people are critical drivers of change and innovation, essential for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). However, they face numerous challenges that limit their potential, such as inadequate access to quality education, unemployment, mental health issues, and exclusion from policy-making processes.
This report, drawing insights from recent discussions at the Science Summit UNGA79, showcases the perspectives of influential speakers, their contributions provide a deeper understanding of the current challenges and propose actionable solutions to empower youth.
Objectives
Strengthening Education Systems and Digital Access
– Professor Akhere Omonkhua, CEO of the Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF), highlighted the urgent need to build research capacity in Africa. He emphasized the importance of post-doctoral training programs to empower young researchers. According to him, increasing investments in STEM education is crucial to enable young African scientists to lead groundbreaking research in areas like infectious diseases, thereby reducing Africa’s dependency on foreign research outcomes.
– Mamadou Bhoye Baldé, Ambassador of Peace for UNESCO in Guinea, emphasized the transformative power of interdisciplinary education. During the session “Unified Science: Strengthening Youth to Address Global Challenges,” he stressed the need to integrate social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities in educational curricula. His goal is to cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills among youth, preparing them to tackle complex issues like climate change and economic inequality.
– Mountaga Keita, CEO of Tulip Industries in Guinea, is actively bridging the digital divide by establishing technology hubs that provide training in computer literacy, coding, and digital tools. These centers not only enhance the employability of youth but also foster innovation. Keita’s efforts focus on equipping young people in rural areas with the skills necessary to participate in the digital economy, thus reducing regional disparities in technology access.
– Zeline Maeva, a development consultant, underscored the importance of global education. She proposed exchange programs and partnerships between universities to expose students to diverse learning environments and enhance their intercultural competencies. This approach, she argued, prepares youth to navigate a globalized world.
Actionable Steps:
– Establish public-private partnerships to fund educational infrastructure and digital literacy programs, drawing inspiration from Mountaga Keita’s technology centers.
– Implement exchange programs as suggested by Zeline Maeva to broaden students’ perspectives and skills.
– Increase investment in STEM and interdisciplinary education to align curricula with future job market demands, following Professor Omonkhua’s recommendations.
Promoting Economic Empowerment and Job Creation
– Professor Sir Tumani Corrah, an advocate for educational reforms, stressed the importance of vocational training programs tailored to the needs of the job market. He argued that aligning education with industry demands is essential for reducing youth unemployment. Corrah’s focus is on developing curricula that prepare young people for careers in high-demand sectors like healthcare, technology, and renewable energy.
– Sophie Szew, a mental health and entrepreneurship advocate, highlighted the barriers young entrepreneurs face, particularly in accessing capital. She emphasized the need for mentorship programs that connect experienced entrepreneurs with young innovators. Szew believes that fostering a supportive ecosystem for start-ups can drive economic growth and job creation.
– Thierno Amadou Sow, a banking executive, presented strategies for promoting the circular economy as a means to create sustainable job opportunities. By adopting practices such as waste reduction and resource reuse, he argued that young people can find employment in emerging green industries.
– Rick Yang, a student mental health advocate, discussed how economic instability contributes to mental health issues among youth. He stressed the importance of creating economic safety nets to reduce stress and anxiety, enabling young people to focus on personal and professional growth.
Actionable Steps:
– Develop sector-specific vocational training programs as suggested by Professor Corrah to address the skills mismatch.
– Launch entrepreneurship funding platforms, as advocated by Sophie Szew, to provide seed funding and mentorship.
– Support green jobs in the circular economy to promote sustainability and economic inclusion, following Thierno Amadou Sow’s recommendations.
Enhancing Mental Health Support
– Anthony Sartori, founder of Evolving Minds, called for integrating mental health awareness into educational systems. He highlighted the potential of digital platforms to provide counseling services, especially in regions where access to mental health professionals is limited. Sartori’s approach includes using online support groups to create safe spaces for youth to discuss their mental health openly.
– Néné Houdia Baldé, founder of Aguibou Barry University, advocated for embedding mental health programs within community healthcare systems. She proposed that governments collaborate with universities to establish mental health clinics that are accessible to students and young professionals. These clinics would focus on preventive measures, stress management, and peer support networks.
– Mary Giliberti, Chief Public Policy Officer at Mental Health America, stressed the need for policy reforms to improve mental health services. She emphasized that integrating mental health training into the curriculum for healthcare providers can enhance the support available to young people.
Actionable Steps:
– Utilize digital platforms, as proposed by Anthony Sartori, to expand access to mental health services for youth.
– Implement community-based mental health programs modeled after Néné Houdia Baldé’s recommendations to provide accessible support.
– Train healthcare professionals to address youth-specific mental health challenges, following Mary Giliberti’s advocacy for integrated training programs.
Increasing Youth Participation in Governance and Policy-making
– Marx Wang, convenor of the “A Seat at the Table” session, emphasized the need for intergenerational dialogue to bridge the gap between youth and policymakers. He showcased successful youth-led initiatives in mental health advocacy that can serve as a model for engaging youth in policy-making.
– Rick Yang discussed the importance of amplifying youth voices in decision-making spaces. He proposed establishing youth advisory councils within government institutions to ensure that policies reflect the concerns and aspirations of young people.
– Kadiatou N’Diaye, a government official in Guinea, highlighted the role of educational programs in promoting civic engagement. She advocated for incorporating civic education into school curricula to empower youth with the knowledge and skills needed to participate in governance.
Actionable Steps:
– Establish youth advisory councils, as suggested by Rick Yang, to integrate young voices into policy-making processes.
– Promote intergenerational dialogues through forums and workshops, inspired by Marx Wang’s initiatives.
– Introduce civic education programs to schools to prepare youth for active participation in governance, following Kadiatou N’Diaye’s recommendations.
Implementing the SDGs
Transforming Education for the Future
The importance of education as a transformative tool was underscored by several experts, including Professor Akhere Omonkhua and Mamadou Bhoye Baldé. To bridge the current gaps in education, the following strategies are recommended:
Scaling Up STEM Education Initiatives
– Drawing from Professor Omonkhua’s emphasis on post-doctoral training and research capacity building, countries should invest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. This includes funding for specialized programs, research grants, and scholarships for young researchers in Africa to tackle region-specific challenges like disease outbreaks and climate adaptation.
– Establish STEM academies and innovation labs in underserved areas, taking inspiration from Mountaga Keita’s technology hubs in Guinea. These centers can provide hands-on learning experiences and digital skills training, equipping youth with the capabilities to thrive in the digital economy.
Promoting Interdisciplinary Education
– Mamadou Bhoye Baldé proposed integrating natural, social, and human sciences to develop critical thinkers capable of addressing global challenges. This holistic approach can be implemented by revising school curricula to include interdisciplinary subjects and project-based learning, thereby fostering problem-solving and leadership skills among students.
– Encourage international exchange programs and collaborations between universities, as suggested by Zeline Maeva, to expose students to diverse perspectives and cultural exchanges.
Digital Literacy and Infrastructure Investment
– The creation of digital literacy programs and internet access centers, as pioneered by Mountaga Keita, should be expanded across underserved regions. Governments can partner with technology companies to provide free internet access and affordable digital devices to students.
– Implement nationwide digital inclusion strategies that prioritize remote and rural areas, ensuring equitable access to technology and online education.
Empowering Youth for Economic Growth
Youth unemployment remains a critical issue, but it can be addressed by aligning education with industry needs and supporting entrepreneurship. Key speakers, including Professor Sir Tumani Corrah, Sophie Szew, and Thierno Amadou Sow, provided actionable insights for driving economic empowerment.
Aligning Vocational Training with Market Needs
– Following Professor Sir Tumani Corrah’s recommendations, governments should develop sector-specific vocational training aligned with market demands. This can include partnerships with industries in healthcare, technology, green energy, and construction.
– Establish apprenticeship programs where youth can gain hands-on experience in high-demand fields, supported by tax incentives for companies that participate in youth employment initiatives.
Supporting Youth Entrepreneurship
– Inspired by Sophie Szew’s emphasis on entrepreneurial support, countries should create incubators and accelerators to nurture young businesses. These can provide access to seed funding, mentorship, and business development resources.
– Leverage public and private sector partnerships to establish funds specifically aimed at youth-led start-ups, with a focus on innovative solutions in agriculture, technology, and sustainable industries.
Fostering a Circular Economy for Job Creation
– Thierno Amadou Sow highlighted the potential of the circular economy to create green jobs. Governments should incentivize businesses to adopt sustainable practices, such as recycling, waste management, and resource efficiency.
– Establish training programs in circular economy principles, targeting young entrepreneurs and workers, to build capacity for sustainable industries.
Addressing Mental Health and Well-being
Mental health was a key focus area for speakers such as Anthony Sartori and Néné Houdia Baldé, who stressed the need for greater investment in mental health services and awareness.
Community-Based Mental Health Programs
– As advocated by Néné Houdia Baldé, integrating mental health services into existing healthcare systems is crucial. Governments can collaborate with universities and NGOs to set up mental health clinics that offer free counseling and support to young people.
– Develop mobile mental health units that can reach remote areas, ensuring that youth in underserved communities have access to psychological support.
Leveraging Technology for Mental Health Support
– Anthony Sartori proposed utilizing digital platforms to provide online counseling, peer support groups, and mental health resources. Governments and NGOs can partner with tech companies to create user-friendly apps that provide confidential support to youth facing mental health challenges.
– Implement mental health literacy campaigns in schools to educate young people about stress management, resilience, and coping strategies.
Training Educators and Community Leaders
– Train teachers, social workers, and healthcare professionals to recognize and address mental health issues in youth. This can include workshops on identifying early signs of mental health problems and providing first-line support.
Engaging Youth in Governance and Policy-making
Exclusion from policy-making was a recurring theme, with speakers like Marx Wang, Rick Yang, and Kadiatou N’Diaye advocating for more inclusive approaches to governance.
Establishing Youth Advisory Councils
– Rick Yang proposed creating youth advisory councils within governmental institutions to ensure that young voices are represented in policy-making processes. These councils should have real decision-making power and influence over policies that affect youth.
– Governments can collaborate with NGOs and international organizations to set up regional and national youth forums where young people can contribute to discussions on education, healthcare, and climate action.
Promoting Civic Education and Leadership Training
– Kadiatou N’Diaye emphasized the need to incorporate civic education into school curricula to prepare youth for active participation in governance. Schools should run programs that teach the basics of democracy, social justice, and human rights.
– Host leadership boot camps, inspired by Marx Wang’s initiatives, to empower young people with the skills needed to take on leadership roles in their communities.
Encouraging Intergenerational Dialogue
– Foster platforms where youth and senior policymakers can engage in open dialogue, as highlighted by Marx Wang. Such platforms can help bridge the gap between generations and ensure that policies are inclusive and forward-thinking.
– Utilize social media and digital town halls to engage youth in real-time policy discussions, ensuring that their voices are heard on critical issues like climate change, education reform, and economic development.
Mobilizing Resources for Implementation
Establishing Dedicated Youth Funds
– To implement the proposed solutions, governments and international organizations should set up dedicated funds that support youth-led initiatives. This includes grants for education, start-up financing, and community-based projects focused on sustainability and mental health.
Building Partnerships with the Private Sector
– Private companies can play a crucial role in scaling these initiatives by providing resources, mentorship, and technological support. For instance, companies can collaborate with NGOs to offer digital tools and training for underserved communities.
Tracking Progress and Impact
– Establish monitoring frameworks to measure the impact of these initiatives. Regular assessments can help refine strategies and ensure that resources are allocated effectively to achieve sustainable outcomes.
Youth Contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals
Youth are not only the future but also a driving force in the present efforts to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Their energy, creativity, and innovative ideas make them crucial contributors in addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and health crises. Recent discussions at international summits have highlighted the essential role that young people play in advancing the SDGs. This report, based on insights from key sessions and documents, explores the ways in which youth are actively contributing to the SDGs, with a focus on education, health, economic empowerment, and policy engagement.
SDG 4: Quality Education
Youth are at the forefront of efforts to improve access to quality education, particularly in underserved regions.
– Mamadou Bhoye Baldé, the coordinator of the Guinean scientific team, emphasized the importance of integrating interdisciplinary education in schools to prepare young people for complex global challenges. By combining natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, young advocates are pushing for a more holistic approach to learning that develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
– Mountaga Keita, CEO of Tulip Industries, has taken concrete steps to bridge the digital divide in Guinea by establishing technology hubs. These centers provide training in digital literacy and coding, empowering youth with the skills needed for the future job market. Keita’s initiative aligns with the SDG target of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
– Professor Akhere Omonkhua stressed the need for increased investment in post-graduate training to enhance research capabilities in Africa. His advocacy for expanding STEM education aligns with the goal of promoting lifelong learning opportunities, especially in research and innovation.
Impact:
– Young leaders are driving the integration of technology in education, particularly in low-income regions, thus contributing to equitable access to learning resources.
– Youth-led initiatives are helping to reform outdated curricula, making education more relevant to current and future job markets.
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
Youth advocates are significantly contributing to improving health and well-being, particularly in the areas of mental health and community health services.
– Anthony Sartori, founder of Evolving Minds, is actively involved in promoting mental health awareness among young people. His initiatives focus on reducing stigma and providing digital platforms for peer support and counseling, making mental health services more accessible.
– Néné Houdia Baldé, founder of Aguibou Barry University, has proposed integrating mental health services into community health programs. By training health professionals and raising awareness, her initiatives support SDG 3’s target of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.
– Mary Giliberti from Mental Health America emphasized the importance of including mental health education in school curricula to equip young people with the tools to manage stress and anxiety. Her efforts contribute to creating a supportive environment for youth well-being.
Impact:
– Youth-led projects are filling gaps in mental health services, particularly in underserved areas, contributing to the global target of reducing premature mortality from non-communicable diseases and promoting mental health.
– The integration of mental health education into schools supports early intervention, helping young people develop resilience and emotional intelligence.
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
The global youth population is actively involved in initiatives that promote inclusive economic growth and job creation.
– Sophie Szew, a youth advocate, focuses on empowering young entrepreneurs by providing access to funding, mentorship, and resources. Her work supports SDG 8 by promoting youth entrepreneurship as a pathway to economic stability and innovation.
– Thierno Amadou Sow, a proponent of the circular economy, highlighted the potential for sustainable economic models to create job opportunities. By promoting recycling and waste management initiatives, Sow’s efforts align with the goal of achieving sustainable economic growth while reducing environmental impact.
– Professor Sir Tumani Corrah advocated for aligning vocational training with market needs to reduce youth unemployment. His recommendations for industry-specific training programs help address the skills mismatch that often leaves young graduates unemployed.
Impact:
– Youth-led start-ups and social enterprises are contributing to job creation, especially in sectors like technology, green energy, and social services.
– Initiatives that focus on sustainable economic practices are driving the transition to a greener economy, supporting long-term economic growth.
SDG 13: Climate Action
Young people are at the forefront of climate action, advocating for sustainable practices and participating in environmental conservation.
– Kadiatou N’Diaye, a youth leader from Guinea, has been involved in raising awareness about environmental conservation among young people. Her work includes organizing school programs and community initiatives focused on tree planting, waste reduction, and sustainable resource management.
– Dr. Rabiaa Marhouch, an advocate for collaborative research, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing climate change. By leveraging the knowledge of young researchers, her initiatives focus on developing strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
– Mountaga Keita also contributes to climate action through his technology initiatives that focus on creating eco-friendly digital solutions, reducing the carbon footprint of technology infrastructure in Guinea.
Impact:
– Youth-led environmental projects are making significant contributions to the global effort to combat climate change through sustainable practices and conservation initiatives.
– Young researchers and activists are using technology to develop innovative solutions for climate adaptation and resilience.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Youth are increasingly engaged in building partnerships to achieve sustainable development.
– Marx Wang, during the session “A Seat at the Table,” emphasized the need for intergenerational dialogue to foster partnerships between youth and senior policymakers. His focus on bridging generational gaps ensures that youth perspectives are included in policy decisions.
– Rick Yang, a mental health advocate, proposed establishing youth advisory councils to facilitate collaboration between young people and government bodies. These councils would provide platforms for youth to engage in policy discussions, contributing to more inclusive governance.
– Maeva Zeline, a consultant in global education, highlighted the importance of exchange programs that foster cross-border collaboration among youth. Her efforts focus on building partnerships that promote cultural understanding and shared learning.
Impact:
– Youth-led advisory councils and forums are ensuring that young voices are included in policy-making, fostering inclusive and responsive governance.
– Collaborative initiatives between youth organizations and international bodies are driving progress in achieving the SDGs through shared expertise and resources.
Conclusion
Youth are playing a vital role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals by leveraging their creativity, energy, and passion for social change. Whether through promoting quality education, enhancing mental health awareness, driving economic empowerment, taking climate action, or fostering partnerships, young people are proving to be essential contributors to global sustainability.
The contributions of speakers like Professor Akhere Omonkhua, Mamadou Bhoye Baldé, Mountaga Keita, Sophie Szew, Anthony Sartori, and many others demonstrate that with the right support and resources, youth can significantly impact the achievement of the SDGs. The continued investment in youth-led initiatives and cross-sector partnerships is crucial to ensuring a sustainable and equitable future for all.
Addressing the challenges facing youth is essential for ensuring a prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future. The insights and strategies provided by experts and youth advocates underscore the need for immediate action. By investing in education, economic empowerment, mental health support, and youth participation in governance, we can empower the next generation to drive meaningful change.
By implementing the solutions discussed in this report, stakeholders can create a more inclusive and resilient society, paving the way for youth to become active leaders in their communities and beyond. The recommendations outlined here provide a roadmap for achieving long-term impact, ensuring that youth are not just participants, but key drivers of sustainable development.