The representative of the United Nations Population Fund has called for an enabling environment to allow young to contribute towards a peace and security in South Sudan.
Dr. Olajide Ademola also encouraged young people to embrace good governance and enhance peace in their communities.
The UN official made the remarks during the Intergenerational panel discussion on Youth Peace and Security organized by the University of Juba in partnership with United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
The event was held to commemorate the International Youth Day.
“The older generation must recognize that it acknowledges the capacity and energy of the young people and critical to national development,’’ Dr. Olajide said.
The Undersecretary for Peacebuilding, Pitia Philip Michael acknowledge the challenges of nation building that young people face.
“There is no single person in this country or the planet earth who has basket of peace, who can give everybody piece of peace?” he asked.
“It is a collective effort of everybody.’’
For her part, Dr. Angelina Buzugba, Director of National Transitional Leadership Institution urged the youths to champion issues of conflict management and grass-root peace building.
She appealed to partners in collaboration with the government to provide resources for young people to engage in nation building.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba, Professor Robert M.K Deng said there is a need for young people to unite under a common cause and promote peaceful coexistence in their communities.
“For you to face an enemy, you must be united. Unity of the youths of this country is paramount,’’ he underscored.
The International Youth Day is this year celebrated under the theme: “Intergenerational solidarity ‘creating A World for all Ages’’, and Intergenerational Solidarity: Building A South Sudan for all Ages!
