By Lamarana S. Jallow
The Minister of Youth and Sports has disclosed that the Government, under the leadership of H.E Adama Barrow, is cognizant of the challenges confronting youth and that Government is ready to provide the policy environment and funding to train young people and prepare them to manage both the formal and informal sectors of the economy, as well as contribute to the general development of the country.
Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, made the disclosure at the TAF Conference and Networking event on the theme: “Rising Strong – Resilience and Preparedness to Navigate the Challenges of an Emerging New Global Architecture.”
The Youth minister went on to highlight the Recovery Focused National Development Plan (NDP), National Employment Policy 2021-2026, National Employment Action Plan, National Youth Policy 2019-2028, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as examples of initiatives meant to create opportunities for the youth.
He also mentioned that the establishment of the University of Science and Technology is an indication of the President’s commitment to developing skills for the youth. “In the future, the University of The Gambia will produce experts in engineering and other technical skills required for national development,” he added.
Regarding Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Badjie informed the gathering that through the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology, efforts have been intensified to ensure that youths interested in acquiring skills are catered for.
On the environment, the Minister stated: “I want to implore on all of us to take action now, rather than later, to mitigate the effects of climate change on our country and planet. This can start with small actions such as not littering our environment, properly managing our waste, and advocating for environmental care.”
The Minister reminded that The Gambia, like many other countries worldwide, has a youthful population, and that it is the category that battles with various social challenges. “These challenges include inadequate educational opportunities leading to high illiteracy rates, unemployment or underemployment, lack of social safety nets, among others”.
He went on to explain that the effects of these social problems lead youths to be antisocial or engage in delinquent behaviors, such as substance abuse and crime, which have unimaginable effects on peace, health, and the economy of the country.
