JUBA – South Sudan parliament on Thursday passed the National Youth Development Policy, a framework to promote a conducive environment for youth empowerment and development.
The bill was passed in cabinet in June 2024 and has since been held up in parliament.
Reacting in a statement, the South Sudan National Youth Union (SSNYU) said it was pleased that the bill was passed.
SSNYU underscored that the Policy provides a strategic roadmap to address youth-related issues such as unemployment, access to quality education, health services, peacebuilding, and civic engagement which are key to building a stable and prosperous South Sudan.
“The passage of this Policy is a historic milestone and a victory for all the young people of South Sudan. It is a clear demonstration that our leaders recognize the central role of youth in nation-building, peace, and development,” it stated.
The Union commended parliament and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, civil society organizations and all stakeholders who contributed to the drafting, review and advocacy processes leading up to the policy’s approval.
It further thanked South Sudan youths for their patience and calls for the timely and inclusive implementation of the policy, and further urges upon the government to allocate adequate resources and ensure youth participation in all stages of execution.