By Lamarana S. Jallow
In her keynote speech, Ms. Ndey Marie Njie , Permanent Secretary at the Ministry, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to youth empowerment and skill acquisition for sustainable development. She emphasised the importance of knowledge and urged the beneficiaries to make the best use of the knowledge gained.
She disclosed that the Government has devoted significant resources to the development of youth through livelihood skill trainings and by extension to other support initiatives with the framework of harnessing the potentials of youth.
The NYSS, through the Ministry, she said, is charged with the responsibility of moulding the youth to promote community development and self-reliance, and being resourceful for national development, with a view to saving them from societal ills; such as unemployment, frustration and the perilous back way journey.
She called on the public and private sector agencies, microfinance institutions, national and international donour community, and philanthropic individuals and organisations to work and support the ideals of the NYSS.
“I want to assure you that the Government of The Gambia under His Excellency President Adama Barrow is always and fully committed to the development of the young people of The Gambia, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports will continue to champion and provide the necessary resources to support youth skills development within an all-inclusive programme targeting all young people who are interested in skills acquisition programmes for employment creation,” Ms Njie add.
Mr Abass Bah, Executive Director of the National Youth Service Scheme, emphasised the significance of the training programme in equipping young people with essential skills. He thanked the Government through the ministry for funding the training, stating that knowledge is key in everything one does.
Bah informed the gathering that 75 young people were recruited, but only fifty-five completed the programme. He highlighted the programme’s importance in reaching youth across the country for sustainable development and promoting decentralization.
Isatou Secka, Kanifing Municipality Youth Chairperson, also thanked the Government through the Ministry and NYSS for creating the environment and opportunity for young people in The Gambia.
