The potential of Ugandan youth is a key to fundamental political change – Bwanika Joseph

When you critically look at the reality surrounding Uganda at the moment, you realize that the youth have been way too sidelined in governance yet they are the biggest population-wise.

According to a 2016 report from the youths survey conducted by the East African Institute,
the youths make up 80 per cent of Uganda’s population, the majority are under 35 years old.
Where are they now as far as leadership is concerned?

Yes, many are schooled but there is a serious disconnect between their qualifications and the skills needed to take off.
So many have been grossly affected by unemployment, more so in their prime time, yet they weigh numerically.

What has been done to salvage this growing trend of events?
Surely, in governance advocacy, sharing the cake with youths is a prudent move and this can be done through core mentorship programs jeered towards  unveiling the young exuberant leaders full of energy.
Yes, tomorrow is here, like it or not.

Incumbent old leaders holding on to offices in relation to leadership is a disservice to the nation while recruiting youth allows them a sense of entitlement in governance.

Truth be told, to think that the  old are still capable of steering things in a mature way is a selfish trait that only stains their progress.

Underminding the potential of the youth in leadership is a gross mistake and produces no  Victory.

For the youth to take  on the mantle from the seniors is a serious issue  in society whether liked or not, for instance, take a look at the sports representation and see who make up the winning teams. In the Olympics and Commonwealth games each country assembles young energetic members who nevertheless score and bring medals, countries earn publicity all courtesy of youthful representatives.

Ideally, the young need to be embraced beyond sports, giving them a platform to showcase their leadership skills.
For they’re high-spirited always in the know of their time, perhaps they can turn things around for the betterment of the Nation.

The author is a Social Development  specialist and CEO Bridge Your Mind Cente