Nigeria as a Case Study!
The current generation of 1.8 billion adolescents is the largest in history. These 1.8 billion people have a tremendous impact on all parts of the health system. Here are few reasons why young people can lead us to a healthier future:
Young people are best poised to advocate for their needs in creating and implementing policies and programs to ensure youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services are free from coercion, discrimination, and violence.
Young people are more receptive to change and have a large stake in creating a strong future. Youth involvement facilitates positive social change, including structures, policies and procedures that are demand-driven to address the health needs of their communities and countries, now and in the future.
Adolescents make up 1/4 of the world's population, but were left out of the Millennium Development Goals. Young leaders can guarantee that youth and their priority to have affordable and quality healthcare are part of the post-2015 development agenda.
Investing in young people increases their knowledge and practical skills, strengthening their social interest, and nurturing long-term commitment to entrepreneurship and creative health solutions.
Investing in youth leadership not only ensures that the future generation is equipped with competencies necessary for strong leadership, but enhances young people’s understanding of how to be accountable and inspiring leaders.
Eleven million young people are expected to enter Africa’s labor market every year for the next decade. As the most interconnected generation ever, there is great opportunity for new solutions, dynamic ideas, and a larger pool of resources to mobilize for these young people to be global change-makers.
Lets rise up its our time to lead. We are the leaders of today!