By Muhammad Amaan
The Kano Network of NGOs (KANET) have celebrated the International Youth Day 2024, and advocated for the establishment of Youth Development Trust Fund in Kano State.
The day is themed “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.”
It highlights the critical role of digital technology in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and underscores the importance of harnessing the power and potential of young people worldwide.
Addressing a press conference at the Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN) office in Kano, Chairman of KANET Steering Committee, Dr Musa Abdullahi Sufi, called for the empowerment of youth through mobile phones and internet access, enabling them to contribute to both personal and national development.
“The recent protests against bad governance, which escalated into violence and resulted in the tragic loss of lives and destruction of property in the state, serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for youth-driven initiatives.
These initiatives must focus on providing skills development, entrepreneurship opportunities, and education to the vast and often overlooked youth population in Kano state,” Dr Sufi said.
He added that the Importance of International Youth Day International Youth Day is a moment for reflection and action.
“It is an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of young people to their communities and to the world. It is also a time to address the challenges they face and to explore solutions that can help them reach their full potential.
“This year, we are not just celebrating the achievements of our youth, but we are also calling for a critical initiative that will shape the future of Kano State, a Youth Development Trust Fund dedicated to supporting and empowering our young people. And For Kano State, this theme resonates deeply, as we have a significant youth population that holds the key to our future prosperity. However, to unlock this potential, we must address the systemic barriers that hinder their progress.”
Sufi further said Kano State is home to a vibrant and dynamic youth population. However, many of our young people face significant obstacles.
“Despite their talents and ambitions, many young people struggle to find meaningful employment opportunities. Poor skills to explore existing opportunities is another factor blocking access to opportunities.
“Limited Access to Education and Skills Training, a significant number of youths
lack access to quality education and vocational training, leaving them ill-equipped to compete in the job market.
“Health Challenges, youth in Kano State face numerous health challenges, including mental health issues, limited access to sexual and reproductive health services, and substance abuse.
“Marginalization of Vulnerable Groups, young women, people with disabilities, and those in rural areas are often left behind in development efforts.”
Dr Sufi stated that the challenges not only limit the potential of youth but also have broader implications for the development of our state.
The chairman added that for the state to effectively address the challenges, they advocated for the establishment of a Youth Development Trust Fund in Kano State.
According to him, the fund will serve as a dedicated financial mechanism to support initiatives aimed at youth development. The Youth Trust Fund will focus
on four key areas.
The areas include; “Entrepreneurship and employment, by providing seed funding, grants, and business development support, the fund will help create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
“Education and skills development, the fund will finance educational programs and vocational training that equip youth with the skills needed for today’s economy.
Health and well-being to support health programs tailored to the needs
of young people, addressing critical issues such as mental health, sexual health, and substance abuse.
“Training young people as leaders and inclusion is governance is key to achieving youth-based issues for sustainable development and increased representations. And leveraging various innovation and creativity in the field of Information Technology (IT) and Agricultural hubs, public private partnerships,’ tourism and more.
The KANET stated that the above intervention can strengthen youth focused development issues and contributes in addressing Kano sustainable and inclusive economy.
Dr Sufi, therefore, called on the Kano state government, the private
sector, civil society organizations, and international partners to join the group in the important initiative.
“We urged the Kano state government to take the lead in partnership with other
stakeholders that include KANET, Aminu Magashi Garba Foundation (AMGF), YOSPIS, Mufarka Youth Development, business community, research and academia, development partners among others; for establishing the Youth Development Trust Fund, with a clear governance framework that ensures transparency, accountability, and youth participation.
“We also call on the private sector and development partners to contribute to the fund. The success of our youth is not just the responsibility of the government; it is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration across all sectors.
“As we celebrate International Youth Day 2024, let us remember that the future of Kano State lies in the hands of our youth. By investing in their development through the Youth Trust Fund, we are not just securing their future but, we are securing the future of our state.”
