JUBA – “What is the role of the youth in the political transition? What type of governance do they demand? What kind of leaders should be voted into public office? What limits should there be on the terms they serve in office?”
Executive Director of Come Let’s Read Initiative, Atem Daniel, highlighted the critical questions confronting a youth leadership forum, facilitated by his organization in collaboration with the South Sudan Women Empowerment Network and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan.
As the driving force behind the initiative, the 300 participating students from Starford International University, South University, and the University of Juba had much to say in response
Adut Magul outlined the evolution of youth empowerment in South Sudan while painting a picture of the way forward.
“As youth, we didn’t pay attention to the laws of the country, the constitution or any document that outlines our rights,” he explains. “But through initiatives like this, we continue to learn, challenge ourselves, and transform our roles in our country. We must continue this trend by educating ourselves as much as possible.”
The Communications and Public Relations student also stressed the need to seize opportunities for political participation, especially to combat hate speech and foster unity between the country’s diverse ethnicities.
Emphasizing the initiative’s theme, ‘I Choose to Lead’, Adut Christina illustrated the ways that young women can provide new perspectives in political processes.
“Women have long been underestimated, despite their strong empathy and intolerance to corruption. They have given their all to their families and are now ready to give it to peace processes in their country,” shared the Executive Director of South Sudan Women Empowerment Network.
She noted many challenges on the path to gender inclusion, stating that “high rates of illiteracy, information gaps, and negative stereotypes regarding youth potential must be addressed promptly to ensure tangible changes.”
With 70 percent of South Sudan’s population comprising of people aged under 30, youth participation in political transitions is imperative.
“Young people are the leaders of tomorrow, so they need to be involved in decision making processes today,” advocated UNMISS Political Affairs Officer, Ndubisi Obiorah.
Another focus of the forum was election preparations, prompting Youth Union’s Deputy Chairperson, Motwakil Mamour, to introduce a newly devised strategy for civic education training across the country that could be rolled out if funding is secured.
This forum was not only a platform for information sharing but also connection building, inspiring participants like Adut.
“I believe that fortunes come to people who look for them and so, now more than ever, I am going to look for opportunities to understand and promote my rights while encouraging my peers to do the same. Together we can bring change.”
By James Sokiri
