2024-10-03 21:31:17
In a historic turning point for Cameroon, the country’s youth are preparing to redefine their own destiny. The government, in an unprecedented gesture, is opening wide the doors to citizen participation, inviting young people to shape the National Youth Policy (NPJ) themselves. This bold move promises to radically transform the social and political landscape of the country.
A new era of youth participation in Cameroon
Wednesday September 25, 2024 will forever mark the history of Cameroonian youth. That day, in the meeting room of the Ministry of Youth and Civic Education (MINJEC), a meeting was held that could well change the situation for millions of young Cameroonians.
Minister Mounouna Foutsou, visibly moved, kicked off the consultations of the thematic networks of youth movements and associations. The objective? Nothing less than the complete revision of the National Youth Policy. “We are facing a situation marked by new phenomena”declared the minister, emphasizing the urgency of updating a policy which seemed to have taken on a few wrinkles.
This initiative, as reported by 237online.com, fits perfectly into the vision of the Head of State who, during his swearing-in, had promised to“offer more opportunities and participation of young people in decision-making”. A promise that takes on its full meaning today.
Cameroonian youth in charge
But what makes this approach truly revolutionary is the method used. No more committees of experts in suits and ties pontificating on what is good for young people. This time, it is the young people themselves who are in charge.
The process was entrusted to the National Youth Council of Cameroon (CNJC), the true spearhead of the country’s youth movements and associations. The objective is clear: to producee “a document developed by young people and for young people”, as Minister Foutsou pointed out.
And to ensure that all voices are heard, an innovative approach has been put in place. WhatsApp platforms will be created for each thematic group, allowing direct and dynamic exchanges. A real 2.0 revolution in a country where the digital divide remains a challenge.
From the street to social networks: an all-round consultation
The diversity of Cameroonian youth is fully taken into account in this process. Thematic networks covering areas as varied as employment, education, agriculture and the environment will be consulted.
But the real innovation lies in the inclusion of the diaspora. As explained by Gaël Brice Sop, vice-president n°1 of the National Executive Office of the CNJC: “The diaspora represents immense potential for our country. Their unique perspective is essential to shaping a truly inclusive and forward-looking youth policy. »
To facilitate this remote participation, a dedicated website has been set up: www.cnjcnyc.info. Fadimatou Iyawa Ousmanou, national president of the CNJC, ensures that everything has been done to make these online consultations a success: “We have organized in-depth training so that everyone knows how it is done, especially online. Our presidents of decentralized offices are now better equipped than ever. »
Challenges to overcome, opportunities to seize
Of course, this process is not without its challenges. As Boris Christian Zo’o, communications manager for the CNJC, points out: “Our biggest challenge will be to synthesize all these voices, sometimes divergent, into a coherent and applicable policy. But it is also our greatest opportunity: to create a policy that truly reflects the aspirations of our youth in all their diversity. »
This revision of the PNJ comes at a crucial time for Cameroon. With a growing young population and pressing economic and social challenges, the country needs the energy and ideas of its youth more than ever.
The professional integration of young people remains a major challenge. This new NPC could well be the tool that will unlock the immense potential of this rising generation.