The Kwara Government and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have partnered to draft policies for youth development in the state.

The Commissioner for Youth Development, Alhaji Shehu Ndanusa, made the announcement in a statement at the end of a two-day technical validation meeting organised by the ministry and UNFPA in Ilorin.

Mr Ndanusa described the collaboration as a milestone for the state, saying it will facilitate a blueprint to support, develop and involve young people in the country’s growth.

He underscored the importance of youth to every nation, calling them the present and future of any country.

Mr Ndanusa said that the document will set the priorities, direction, and programmes for youth development.

 Also, the state Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Dr Mary Arinde, described the policy as a “declaration and commitment to the priorities, directions and practical supports that a country intends to provide for the development of its young men and women.”

Mrs Arinde observed that the programme was a significant milestone to shape the future of voices and the potential of youth in the state.

She said that the drafting of the policy demonstrated the state government’s clarity and determination to support, develop, and involve young people in growth and development across all spheres.

The commissioner also said that through dialogue and consensus, the aspirations, concerns, and challenges of the youths would be magnified.

 “The youth policy is a commitment to empower, include and open doors in employment, innovation, health and job creation.

 “The youth are counting on us to deliver hope and drive progress,” she said.

 Mr Arinde also commended Governor AbdulRahman Abdulrazaq on his youth-friendly programmes across the state.

In her goodwill message, Gloria Enueze, a sexual reproductive health specialist at UNFPA, explained that the youth policy would set the priorities, direction, and programmes for youth development.

Mrs Enueze explained that the UNFPA adolescent and youth strategy focuses on promoting rights, health, and development, specifically targeting the empowerment of young people.

(NAN)