MYS and Partners Celebrate International Youth Day under the Theme From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,"

The Ministry of Youth and Sports and Partners celebrated International Youth Day in Monrovia on Friday, August 16 at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex under the From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development," with calls for huge investment in the digital education for young people.

Youth and Sports Minister Cllr. Jeror Cole Bangalu said the government had taken the momentous step by launching the Digital Transformation Project for ten thousand young people in the country.

Minister Bangalu said the stability of the country’s peace and democracy requires equipping the youth with digital education and training.

He said that the government is dedicated to raising digital awareness among the youth, recognizing that access to and use of digital technologies are vital for empowering young people to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s socio-economic development.

Also speaking at the program, Christine Umuton who deputized for UNDP Resident Coordinator to Liberia said that the UN recognizes digital technology's transformational role in empowering young people to drive economic growth and social progress and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Liberia.

Umuton said in this era where technology is rapidly evolving, it is necessary to equip young people with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate and leverage digital platforms safely and effectively.

He said the theme for this year’s ceremony encourages nations to support young people to transition their digital engagements to tangible outcomes that contribute to national development.

For her part, Mercy Corps Country Director, Rabi Sani stressed the need for huge investment in the youth population because the world is evolving to a new digital age that needs the involvement of young people who comprise of 75% of Liberia’s population.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres in his 2024 International Youth Day statement, emphasized that young people are the architects of our future. They are the ones who will shape the world we live in, investing in their digital skills and access is investing in our collective future.

Therefore, this year’s celebration focuses on showcasing the positive impact of digital technology on education, employment, and entrepreneurship, highlighting youth-led and youth-focused institutions excelling in digital innovation, we inspire a generation of digital-savvy leaders who can drive progress in various sectors.

International Youth Day is celebrated on August 12 every year and this this year’s International Youth Day was grace by UNDP, UNFPA, WHO, UN WOMEN, MERCY CORPS, Mano River Union Youth Parliament, Liberia National Student Union and the Federation of Liberian Youth.