By Mustapha Jallow
A youth from Jarra West District in Lower River Region (LRR), Ms. Salimatou Gagigo, has pointed out that Gambian youths have for decades been used as political tools by politicians and it is time that the scenario changes.
Speaking at a civic awareness training Organised by National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) at her district, Ms, Gagigo said some politicians think youth cannot hold leadership position.
She added that it’s now time for politicians to clap and dance for youth in leadership and not the contrary.
“Now I think that the awareness is coming back to the youths. We have also seen our role because is not only the elders that can hold political position but even the youths can participate in holding leadership position,’’ she said.
Meanwhile, the 6-day training which was supported by United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with United Nations Peace Building Fund (UNPF), was held under the topic: “Training of out-of-school youths on leadership, civic right and duties to prepare them for transition to adulthood and citizenship.’’
Nonetheless, Ms. Gagigo said the training was timely and significant as it was centered on civic education mainly focusing on youth. She stated that most of the youths know their rights but do not know their responsibilities.
“We have learned many things that we can be able to use and make change in societies,’’ she said.
The Jarra Youth also urged participants to share the knowledge gained at the training with their colleagues.
