Youth empowerment our priority, says Veep
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to establish at least one youth development centre in each province as a way of fostering a conducive environment for employment creation.
And Vice-President Inonge Wina said Government considers the youth as the most cherished asset that will steer the country to economic development and prosperity as outlined in the vision 2030.
Ms Wina said this yesterday at the opening of the 2018 national youth forum and young entrepreneurs and innovators exhibition themed, “Leveraging opportunities for youth through information and communication technologies (ICT).”
Ms Wina disclosed that Government was working towards the implementation of the recommendations of the 2017 national youth forum that include among others, accelerating the establishment of youth development centres that are supported with appropriate services, facilities and agro inputs.
“It is the plan of my government to establish at least one youth development centre in all provinces.
“Furthermore, Government is committed to the establishment of a centre of excellence in Science, Mathematics, Technology, Medicine and research,” Ms Wina said.
She also said Government has resolved to accelerate the provision of ICTs as it was a catalyst for economic and social development capable of eradicating poverty, create wealth and employment opportunities for youths.
Ms Wina said Government has committed substantial resources towards building ICT infrastructure and capacities for the youth to realise the transformational culture for a smart Zambia.
She said this is in line with the robust infrastructure development plan government has embarked on an ambitious journey of establishing at one university in all the ten provinces.
She also directed the Minister of Higher Education Professor Nkandu Luo to expedite the establishment of such a centre of excellence.
And Ms Wina has urged the youth to promote peace, unity and tolerance of divergent views in society as they are essential requisites for sustainable development.
Meanwhile, speaking at the same occasion Minister of Youth, Sport and Child Development Moses Mawere urged the youth to be active participants in socialeconomic development of the country.
Mr Mawere said the objective of the forum was to provide a platform to showcase the innovative programmes that the youth were involved in.
Mr Mawere explained the forum which attracted more than 1, 500 youths from across the country also provided an opportunity for youths to make recommendations on how best the government can formulate policies.