UNICEF South Africa has released new U-Report findings that highlight how girls and young women believe they can effect positive change in their communities to improve their wellbeing and futures.
Their ability to positively influence others, to be leaders and to gain the support of others were the top three stated reasons that enable girls and young women to be change makers according to the report. More than 54 per cent polled also think that girls’ lives will be better in 30-years-time.
The U-Report findings align with a global World Children’s Day UNICEF-Gallupintergenerational poll that shows young people are 50% more likely than older generations to believe the world is becoming a better place – despite them being impatient for action on mounting crises.
“The message is clear, girls and young women, boys and young men, are determined to drive positive change,” said Christine Muhigana, UNICEF Representative in South Africa, speaking from the Jazzart studio in central Cape Town. UNICEF partners with the dance group to promote life skills and youth development that supports the transition into working lives for some of the most vulnerable young people.
“We must provide equal opportunities and listen to children and all young people so that they have the support and platforms needed to effect positive change,” added Muhigana.
SA youth positive despite pandemic, UNICEF poll finds
Despite the challenges facing children in South Africa, which have been exacerbated by COVID-19, a compilation of perceptions from a series of U-Report polls during the year highlight the overall optimism of children and young people, their support for their peers and their determination to forge a better future.
According to the UNICEF report:
- 78% of children and young people said they would try and help improve their peer’s mental wellbeing.
- 65% polled believe the green economy could provide employment in the future, with agriculture, tourism and renewable energy of most interest.
- 64% of children and young people are optimistic that discussions at COP 26 could still make a difference in the climate fight.
- 86% of young people stated that the COVID-19 vaccine is important for their health.
A youth-produced ‘Reimagine our Future Declaration’, released on Youth Day 2021, also provided a vision from young people of, ‘a future where young people’s voices are acknowledged, and our participation is not tokenistic’.The drafting of the declaration was a reminder of the power and agency of South Africa’s young people and covers economic, environmental and social considerations.
“Children and young people have faced another year of disruptions, from stalled education to limited access to health services, the worsening of food security and livelihood opportunities, all affected by the pandemic,” said Muhigana. “But despite everything the energy, creativity and positivity of children and young people are a stark reminder that there is hope for a better future for all,” she added.
from The South African https://ift.tt/3xzBKKx
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