The Importance of Youth Involvement in Sustainable Development in The Gambia
Fellow Gambian,
I stand before you today to speak about the importance of youth involvement in sustainable development, specifically in The Gambia. The issue of sustainable development is one that affects us all, and it is a pressing issue that requires urgent attention. This issue is at the core of my heart and so does it to those who love and care about our beloved country.
We cannot ignore the urgency of youth involvement, trust me, my sisters, and brothers. The Gambia is facing a number of environmental and socio-economic challenges, including climate change, poverty, lack of opportunities, and lack of access to basic services. These challenges threaten the country’s development, security, and the well-being of its citizens. For example, The Gambia is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as sea level rise, which threatens coastal communities and infrastructure. Look around Banjul, Bakau, Senegambia area, Serrekunda, Bijilo, Brufut, Tanje, Sanyang, Gunjur, Kartong, Darsilami, Brikama, Faraba Bantang, Barra, Essau, Mbollet Ba, Njongon, Berrending, Bakalarr, Kerewan, Kuntaur, Basse Santa Su, Farafenni, Mansa Konko, Georgetown, Nyanija, Dankunku, Bansang, etc., and if you love this country, and honest to yourself, you will surely agree with me. Additionally, poverty remains a persistent problem in the country, with 40% of the population living below the poverty line. Let us do reality check in our own family.
The importance of addressing these challenges through sustainable development cannot be overstated. Sustainable development aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It is essential for ensuring a better future for all, particularly for the youth of The Gambia.
The youth of The Gambia have a necessary role to play in achieving sustainable development. They are the future leaders and decision-makers of the country, and their participation is crucial for the success of sustainable development initiatives. For example, involving young people in community-based initiatives such as tree planting, waste management and conservation can help to protect the environment and create new opportunities for them.
The significance of youth involvement in sustainable development is also evident in the relevance of their contributions. The youth of The Gambia have the energy, creativity, and passion to drive change and make a real difference in their communities. They have the potential to bring fresh ideas and new perspectives to the table, which can help to create innovative solutions to the country’s development challenges. For example, young entrepreneurs in The Gambia are already creating sustainable solutions such as solar-powered irrigation systems and eco-tourism projects that generate income and protect the environment.
To achieve this, we need a change in attitude towards the youth. They are not just the future, but they are also the present. Their active participation and engagement in sustainable development is vital. We must recognize their capabilities and potentials. This requires a commitment from all of us to empower the youth and provide them with the necessary resources, skills, and opportunities to be active and engaged citizens.
As a society, we must also demonstrate determination in addressing the challenges of sustainable development and create a proactive role for youth in The Gambia. This includes investing in quality education, creating job opportunities, and providing access to resources and technology. This is the only way we will be able to achieve our sustainable development goals and create a better future for all, particularly for the youth.
In conclusion, I urge every one of us to recognize the urgency, importance, necessary, significance, relevance, contribution, attitude change, commitment, determination, and proactive role of youth in sustainable development in The Gambia. Together, we can create a better and sustainable future for all. Thank you.
Professor Michael Ba Banutu-Gomez
Proprietor Banutu Business College, Lamin
Department of Management
William G Rohrer College of Business
Rowan University
Glassboro, NJ 08080Top of Form