Youth are considered the cornerstone of any nation’s development and bright future. They are the driving forces of innovation, energy, and creativity, capable of opening new pathways for a country’s social and economic advancement. In a country like Afghanistan, which has been affected by wars and instability for an extended period, the youth are regarded as the nation’s greatest asset. International Youth Day, celebrated annually on August 12, provides an excellent opportunity to raise public awareness about the challenges and needs of this valuable generation.
In Afghanistan, as in other countries, youth face many challenges, but our youth face a unique set of difficulties that hinder their pursuit of work and a better life. The most significant problem is unemployment. Afghanistan is one of the countries with the highest unemployment rates among youth. This situation not only hinders their individual growth but also impedes the overall economic progress of the country. Unemployment, especially among the youth, can lead to social mistrust, despair, and ultimately, the decision to leave the country.
International Youth Day should be used as an important opportunity to change this situation in Afghanistan. The Afghan caretaker government must pay serious attention to the youth of the country and find long-term solutions to their problems. This need is particularly evident in the creation of economic opportunities. The government must develop strategies that not only provide employment opportunities for the youth but also offer them avenues for self-reliance and professional training.
One effective step in this regard is the creation of targeted employment programs. The government can create job opportunities for youth through the development of the private sector, agricultural projects, and industrial sectors. Additionally, vocational and professional training centers should be widely established to equip the youth with the necessary skills according to the demands of the job market. Furthermore, considering the experiences of other countries, the government can support innovation and entrepreneurship by offering loans and financial aid programs for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Another major issue affecting Afghan youth is migration. Despite the improvement in security, many young people, driven by despair, seek to leave the country and live abroad. This situation is not only a significant loss for the country but also poses considerable challenges for the lives and futures of these young people during their migration journey. The caretaker government must develop long-term strategies to provide young people with the opportunities to live a good life within their country and revive their hopes.
In this area, there is a need for fundamental changes and reforms by the government. The government should prevent youth migration by expanding employment opportunities, education, and social services. Moreover, the government should provide opportunities for youth participation and consultation, enabling them to take part in governmental affairs and play their role in the country’s progress.
In conclusion, it is imperative for Afghanistan to utilize the strength and talents of its youth for national development. The caretaker government must create long-term strategies for supporting, training, and creating opportunities for youth. International Youth Day offers us the chance to seriously examine the needs and challenges of the youth and take practical steps for their better future. Afghanistan will only achieve a bright future when its youth have the opportunities for progress and prosperity within their own country.