International Youth Day 2016 is being observed under the theme – “The Road to 2030: Eradicating Poverty and Achieving Sustainable Consumption and Production”. This year’s Day is about achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It focuses on the leading role of young people in ensuring poverty eradication and achieving sustainable development through sustainable consumption and production.
As Guyana joins the rest of the world in observing International Youth Day we must be cognizant that our young people can be effective social agents of change and progress and this is certainly so in the social cohesion process. They are a crucial segment of society in advancing and contributing to the development of our nation because they bring dynamism, creativity, and innovation. These can be combined to deliver key solutions for the 2030 agenda of eradicating poverty and achieving sustainable development.
Young people are an untapped reservoir of talent and it is essential that we give them the right tools to express their opinions and unlock their potential. The Government of Guyana is ensuring that efforts are made to consolidate that. We want to see our youth population actively engaged in strategic actions that will functionally transform Guyana into a green economy with widespread development in a sustainable manner. Their efforts can be dual, not only for a green economy but one that is cohesive where everyone feels a sense of legitimacy and belonging.
The annual observance of International Youth day is a reminder that we as a nation as well as countries throughout the world must seek measures to promote dialogue between the youth community and Government at all levels. Our efforts are to ensure that we establish mechanisms that permit youth access to information and provide them with opportunities to present their perspectives on Government decisions.
Let us in advancing the role of our youth, actively involve them in the protection of the environment and the promotion of the economic and social development of Guyana. It is the only way we can truly ensure poverty eradication, and achieve sustainable development through sustainable consumption and production.
Happy International Youth Day to all!
Leave a Comment