Kampala, June 14, 2024 – In a significant move to enhance youth engagement in policy-making, the European Union (EU) facilitated a vital dialogue between the Youth Sounding Board and Uganda’s Youth Affairs Minister, Hon. Balaam Ateenyi Barugahara. The event, held at the EU Delegation in Uganda, was aimed at bridging the gap between young leaders and policymakers.
EU Ambassador Jan Sadek, who opened the session, emphasized the EU’s commitment to incorporating youth perspectives into development policies. He stressed that young people are pivotal in driving sustainable development and effective governance. The dialogue provided a platform for youth leaders to voice their concerns and suggestions directly to the government.
The Youth Sounding Board, composed of dynamic young leaders from various sectors, presented a series of recommendations focusing on governance, employment, and the green transition. These recommendations were the culmination of extensive consultations with youth groups across the country. Key proposals included the creation of more job opportunities for young people, enhancing vocational training programs, and integrating climate resilience into national development plans.
Hon. Barugahara, in his response, acknowledged the importance of the youth’s contributions and assured them that their voices would be considered in future policy-making processes. He highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to address youth unemployment and improve access to quality education. The Minister also encouraged the youth to remain engaged and proactive in seeking solutions to the challenges they face.
The event featured lively discussions, with youth representatives sharing their experiences and aspirations. They emphasized the need for more inclusive and transparent governance, better access to financial resources for young entrepreneurs, and stronger support for environmental initiatives. The dialogue also touched on the importance of mental health and well-being, with calls for more comprehensive support systems for young people.
Participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to engage directly with a high-ranking government official and appreciated the EU’s role in facilitating such dialogues. The event concluded with a commitment from both sides to continue working together towards a more inclusive and sustainable future for Uganda. This dialogue marks a step forward in the EU’s efforts to empower young people and ensure their active participation in shaping the policies that affect their lives. By fostering such engagements, the EU and the Ugandan government aim to build a more responsive and youth-centric approach to development.
