25 Aug 2013

There is no doubt that migration often offers valuable opportunities and contributes to the development of the community and society at large, but it can also pose risks and unacceptable  situations. 

Speaking at the celebration of the International Youth Day at Dukwi on August 21, Department of Youth represenattive, Mr Moses Knight, said for some young  people, migration can deny them basic  rights, and expose them to exploitation and unsafe jobs.

Mr Knight said the theme fo  this year, which is ‘Youth migration; moving the development forward,’ highlights issues relating to youth  igration.

He said each year the United Nations Secretary General decides upon a theme for the day on the basis of issue  of concern to young  people.

He pointed out that International Youth  Day (IYD) was celebrated on12 August each year after it was established by the UN in 2000 as a means of raising awareness of the issues affecting  young people.

Mr Knight applauded government for coming up with programmes such as Youth  Development  Fund (YDF) and the outh Empowerment Scheme (YES) that cater specifically for young people.

He said through these programmes, youth have created employment for themselves and others and this has addressed issues concerning youth migration to urban areas.

For his part, Tutume Sub -district culture officer, Mr Caiphus Kupelan said the objective of the day was  to appreciate the global perspective on youth issues and responses an  to facilitate national dialogue on issues that affect young people’s livelihood, struggles  and opportunities.  ENDS