OPEN LETTER: YOUTH DEVELOPMENT POLICIES SHOULD EMBRACE ENTREPRENEURSHIP, MENTAL HEALTH AND OUR CULTURES

 

Omolayo Owoleye
Lead Project Manager, LafftabancInc

Owoleye Omolayo is a young multifaceted and award-winning event host & entrepreneur, a dynamic professional with a diverse skill set that extends far beyond the stage. With a proven track record in project management, Omolayo’s forte lies in orchestrating seamless experiences through meticulous project planning, ensuring each detail aligns with the client’s vision. 

In his open letter, youth development policies should focus on entrepreneurship, training and mentorship having diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives in check.

      18th January, 2023.      

Dear Honorable Ministers,

Promoting youth development in a developing country marked by diverse cultures, police brutality, and security challenges requires a multifaceted approach. Effective policies must address the unique socio-economic conditions, respect cultural diversity, and tackle issues of police brutality to create an environment conducive to the growth and well-being of the youth.

To begin with, economic policies should focus on creating opportunities for the youth. Investing in education and vocational training programs tailored to local needs can empower young people with the skills necessary for meaningful employment. This not only addresses unemployment but also ensures that the workforce is equipped to contribute to the development of the nation.

Cultural sensitivity is paramount in a diverse setting. Policies should celebrate and preserve the cultural identities of various communities. Implementing inclusive education that incorporates diverse histories and perspectives fosters understanding and unity among the youth. Furthermore, initiatives promoting cultural exchange programs can bridge gaps and create a sense of shared identity, strengthening social cohesion.

Addressing police brutality is a critical aspect of youth development. Establishing transparent and accountable law enforcement agencies through rigorous training and oversight mechanisms is essential. Independent bodies should be empowered to investigate and address allegations of misconduct, ensuring that law enforcement agencies are held responsible for their actions. Additionally, community policing strategies can build trust between the police and the youth, fostering a collaborative approach to maintaining security.

Security challenges often disproportionately affect the youth. Policies should prioritize conflict resolution and peace-building efforts, engaging young people as active participants in these initiatives. Investing in community-based programs that address the root causes of conflicts, such as poverty and inequality, can contribute to sustainable peace.

Youth empowerment policies should also include measures to enhance mental health support. Exposure to violence and insecurity can have profound effects on the psychological well-being of young individuals. Integrating mental health services into the education system and community centers ensures that young people have access to the support they need, promoting resilience and positive coping mechanisms.

Furthermore, technology can play a pivotal role in youth development. Policies should encourage the integration of digital literacy programs into the education system, providing young people with the skills necessary to navigate the modern world. Access to information and communication technologies can also open up new avenues for economic opportunities, empowering the youth to participate in the global digital economy.

In conclusion, effective policies for youth development in a developing country with diverse cultures, police brutality, and security challenges require a comprehensive and nuanced approach. By addressing economic, cultural, and security issues, these policies can create an environment that nurtures the potential of the youth, fostering a generation capable of contributing to the progress and stability of their nation.

E-signed

Omolayo O.A.