By Kabuye Ronald
Ugandan youth have been urged to take initiative and actively participate in sustainable development rather than waiting for opportunities to be handed to them. This call to action was made during a youth focused session on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) organized by the United Nations Association of Uganda (UNAU) in Kampala.
Richard Baguma Tinkasimire, Secretary General of UNAU, challenged the youth to abandon the culture of inaction and entitlement.
“There is a prevailing mindset among some young people that others are responsible for their future. But as adults, since they are over 18, they must understand that responsibility for their lives rests primarily with themselves,” Baguma emphasized.
He encouraged youth to build the courage and motivation needed to confront the country’s challenges and find solutions rather than waiting for external intervention.
Ashraf Kakaire, a representative from Open Space Centre and a member of the core reference group on SDGs in Uganda, connected the recently launched Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) with the SDGs. He urged the youth to engage with the plan’s key priorities, which include tackling unemployment, advancing education, promoting science and technology, and addressing climate and governance issues.
Kakaire highlighted the need for youth not only to advocate but also to take part in monitoring and evaluating government investments in SDG-related areas. “Those who understand the SDGs should educate their peers. Mobilization and ownership of the SDGs by youth are critical because these goals directly impact our communities,” he said.
Participants left the session inspired and informed. Maria Nalumansi, one of the attendees, said, “I’ve realized the SDGs are connected to everything we do. Ignoring them will only harm us in the long run.”
Another participant, Akot Maria, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to better understand both the SDGs and the NDP IV. “I now see the important role youth and the government are playing in driving sustainable development,” she said.
