Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Highlights from the 2023 International Youth Day Summit

On the 15th of August 2023, a dynamic and inspiring event unfolded at the Community & Youth Development Initiatives Oby Resource Centre, marking the commemoration of the International Youth Day. The one-day Youth Summit, organized in collaboration with various youth organizations, ignited a spark of enthusiasm among attendees as they gathered to delve into discussions centered around the theme “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World.” With a diverse range of participants hailing from organizations like Federation of Colleges Ex-Students’ Christian Association (FECA), Girl’s Guide Association, Religious Organizations, Boys Scouts, and the National Union of Imo State Students from tertiary institutions in Owerri, the summit was a microcosm of the passion and potential of the youth.

A Diverse Gathering of Youth Organizations

One of the most striking features of the Youth Summit was the array of youth organizations that joined hands to create a powerful force for change. The event brought together youths from various backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, fostering an environment where ideas flowed freely, and connections were forged. This diverse representation contributed to a holistic approach to addressing challenges and seeking solutions, reflecting the unity of purpose that the youth can exhibit when given a platform to collaborate.

Exploring the Theme: “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World”

The theme of this year’s International Youth Day event resonated strongly with the global urgency to address environmental issues and create a sustainable future. To shed light on the importance of this theme, two impactful presentations were delivered to the participants.

1. The Importance of Agriculture for Sustainable Development

A representative from the CARA Development Foundation took the stage to discuss the vital role of agriculture in achieving sustainable development. The presentation emphasized the need for youths to recognize agriculture not only as a source of livelihood but also as a cornerstone for building resilient communities and ensuring food security. Attendees were inspired to consider the ways in which they could contribute to sustainable farming practices, promote agroecology, and harness innovation to drive positive change in the agricultural sector.

2. Civic Education and Voter Engagement

As part of their civic responsibility, youths were introduced to the upcoming Imo November 2023 Gubernatorial elections and the “Ochichi” platform for voter education. This presentation aimed to empower youths with the knowledge and tools they needed to participate actively in the democratic process. By understanding the significance of their votes and engaging in informed decision-making, the youth were encouraged to shape the political landscape of their state positively.

Interactive Discussions and Action Plans

The summit’s success lay in its interactive nature, where participants were not just passive listeners but active contributors. After each presentation, participants engaged in lively discussions, sharing their thoughts, concerns, and potential solutions. These discussions served as a forum for participants to voice their opinions, learn from one another, and build a sense of community around shared goals.

One of the most critical outcomes of the summit was the creation of action plans. Participants, inspired by the presentations and discussions, collaborated to draft actionable steps that could be taken individually and collectively to address the challenges outlined during the event. This practical approach ensured that the ideas exchanged during the summit translated into tangible efforts toward building a sustainable world and an engaged citizenry.

Conclusion

The 2023 International Youth Day Youth Summit held at the Community & Youth Development Initiatives Oby Resource Centre was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on the participants. The convergence of diverse youth organizations, coupled with insightful presentations and interactive discussions, demonstrated the power of collaboration and knowledge sharing. As the youth left the summit, armed with new insights, ideas, and action plans, they stood ready to champion the cause of sustainability and actively participate in shaping their community and the world at large. This event served as a reminder that when the passion and potential of the youth are harnessed, transformative change is not just possible but inevitable.