As Uganda commemorates Africa Youth Day, the government is emphasizing its commitment to empowering the nation’s youth and promoting education. The event, which will take place on November 1, 2023, at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel, will center around the theme: “One Million Next Level is Knocking: Youth-led Movements that Transcend Borders.”
State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, highlighted the government’s dedication to education, skills development, entrepreneurship, and social innovations during a press conference held at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala.
One of the key areas of focus will be youth employment through a variety of programs, including the Youth Livelihood Programme, which is already underway. This program serves as a response to the high levels of unemployment and poverty among the nation’s youth.
Minister Nyirabashitsi mentioned that this event serves as a prelude to the 2024 theme of the African Union, which will concentrate on constructing resilient and inclusive education.
The commitment to youth engagement and support is in alignment with President Yoweri Museveni’s vision. He introduced the “One Million Next Level” initiative last year and established a steering committee to oversee its implementation.
The committee is slated to convene this week to formulate strategies for addressing the gaps in education, youth employment, and the well-being of young people.
According to the minister, Africa Youth Day 2023 promises to be an inspiring occasion filled with knowledge-sharing and a sense of unity among the youth.
Additionally, the celebration receives continued support from various development partners, including the European Union in Uganda, UNFPA Uganda, Plan International, Youth for Tax Justice Network Uganda, Habitat for Humanity, and the African Youth Federation.
| Key Points | |
|---|---|
| Date of Africa Youth Day | November 1, 2023 |
| Theme | “One Million Next Level is Knocking: Youth-led Movements that Transcend Borders” |
| Government’s Focus Areas | – Education – Skills Development – Entrepreneurship – Social Innovations – Youth Employment |
| Youth Livelihood Programme | An ongoing initiative to combat youth unemployment and poverty |
| 2024 African Union Theme | “Building Resilient and Inclusive Education” |
| President Museveni’s Initiative | “One Million Next Level” initiative launched to support youth engagement |
| Development Partners | – European Union in Uganda – UNFPA Uganda – Plan International – Youth for Tax Justice Network Uganda – Habitat for Humanity – African Youth Federation |
| Steering Committee | To address gaps in education, youth employment, and well-being |
| Anticipated Event | Inspiration, knowledge-sharing, and unity among the youth |