The executive director of Adolescent Health and Information Projects (AHIP) Hajiya Mairo Bello has urged the government to establish digital learning hubs for youths to make them self-reliant.
The Theme for this year’s International Youth Day is “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.”
In a statement signed by the Executive director and made available to pressmen.
Hajiya Mairo pointed out that the world is turning into a global village, hence the need for youths to become digitally literate not just for social media but for their comprehensive development and harnessing their potential.
“Youths must engage in all aspects of agriculture to ensure food security, consciously promote peace and security”
She pointed out that the giant of Africa, Nigeria, needs input from youths as the leaders of today and tomorrow.
“Digital knowledge will empower youths, make them self-reliant, and reduce societal vices.”
She stressed that, according to the United Nations, International Youth Day is celebrated annually on 12 August to bring youth issues to the attention of the international community and celebrate the potential of youth as partners in today’s global society.
“The Day gives an opportunity to celebrate and mainstream young peoples’ voices, actions, and initiatives, as well as their meaningful, universal, and equitable engagement.”
She hinted that The UN General Assembly (UNGA) established the Day on 17th December 1999, after it endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth, calling for 12th August to be declared International Youth Day.
Hajiya Mairo Bello said reports indicate that the International Youth Day on August 12 each year focuses on the difficulties that some young people are experiencing worldwide.
“According to the report, half the children between the age of six and 13 lack basic reading and math skills, and childhood poverty is still a prevalent problem globally.”
The executive director pointed out that the theme for this year highlights the intersection of youth, digital innovation, and sustainable development, emphasizing the crucial role young people play in using digital technologies to drive sustainable progress.
She noted that AHIP, as a youth-focused organization, has initiated various projects to uplift the living standards of youths.
Hajiya Maito advised youth to desist from drug peddling and abuse that could lead to societal vices and criminal activities.
The executive director urged the youth to be resilient, hard-working, and dedicated to good behaviour and acquire education to move the nation forward.