Umunya Youth Speak: Voices from the Next Generation

Umunya Youth Speak: Voices from the Next Generation The Umunya Professionals Association hosted a special youth forum giving young people from Umunya, aged between 16 and 30, a dedicated platform to share their perspectives on the community's challenges and opportunities. The event was one of the most energising gatherings in UPA's history, revealing a generation that is smart, ambitious, deeply rooted in identity, and hungry for tools to fulfil their potential. Themes That Emerged Education and Skills: Young people spoke about challenges accessing quality education — high fees, underfunded schools, poor facilities, and a mismatch between formal education and the skills the economy demands. Connectivity and Technology: Inadequate internet access, limited electricity, and shortage of technology training were identified as major barriers. Several young people spoke of self-teaching digital skills and lamented the lack of a proper digital skills centre in the community. Economic Opportunity: The scarcity of formal employment was a recurring theme. Young people expressed desire not just for jobs, but for an environment where enterprise can flourish — affordable premises, microfinance access, and markets for locally made goods. Cultural Pride: Youth repeatedly and passionately affirmed their pride in being from Umunya and their desire to see the community's cultural heritage preserved and celebrated. UPA's Commitments UPA committed to: establishing a digital skills and technology training centre within two years; expanding the scholarship programme to include vocational training grants; working with market associations on a youth enterprise zone; and making youth participation a formal part of UPA's governance.

Written by

Prof Ada Juni Menakaya

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