Youth are the backbone of a nation-building process, standing as the future leaders and nation’s heroes. If nations have genuine confidence in youth, they will direct all their energy and talents in developing their countries and serving its citizens. That is why countries, which efficiently utilise their youth in the right direction are more developed while the ones which don't realise the real value of its youth stay behind.
In this regard, if youth are not given the opportunity to play essential role in the nation-building movement, they might turn into a burden, perhaps a lost treasure to the whole nation. Youth’s contribution and support to different government authorities and policy-makers could be very fruitful. Instead, this is a very rewarding and healthy practice for governments to involve youth in the decision-making process. All that youth need is the trust and chance to prove themselves!
In a particular situation, youth decisions and experiences are more useful and practical as well as more worthy than the ample expertise of elders. Sometimes, youth are more creative and workaholic even. In some government bodies youth can be involved to help in the process of reviewing, setting up and implementing policies and procedures, especially on issues concerning youth. Consulting youth to identify the demands and issues of their concern is definitely of great support to offer them with essential needs and services.
Consequently, youth will turn out to be valuable assets to the country when they are involved and empowered. Today, most of the youth own theories and experience together, which is of high importance of course. On the local front, Omani youth are given enough opportunities, so that they can contribute in sharing their talents and expertise in building the nation. Always having youth onboard is an advantage and a rewarding experience.
Thanks to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth for sparing no effort to support, involve and empower youth in various spheres of life. The youth centres, creative and insightful initiatives and campaigns that are dedicated to youth are making a big change indeed to attract and empower youth talents. Moreover, constant support and attention are seriously accorded to youth and young talents development by different government bodies.
Omani youth always enjoyed special attention from His Majesty who believes in youth as the wealth of the nation and the real treasure that should be always honed. His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik addressed in his first speech: “Youth are the wealth of a nation, its inexhaustible resource and the arms that build it. They are its present and future. We will always listen to them and sense their needs, interests and aspirations, which will definitely be accorded the attention that they deserve”.
Thank you Your Majesty for the Royal confidence and strong belief in youth.
Accordingly, youth, as an important segment of society, should always be given a key role on certain occasions, like those social activities and events organised to reinvigorate the culture and traditions of their society. Through this, youth will be encouraged to bring their best and play their essential part in serving the community. Another area of youth strength, which could be highlighted and well-invested is sports activities; it is their cup of tea and they shall be leading when organising such recreational and athletics events.
On top of this, youth rights and responsibilities should be clearly identified in any field they are involved or anticipated to take part. At this point, youth will definitely get the feeling of belonging and self-importance. Hence, it will be obviously reflected in their productivity in whatever they do, so they become more devoted and loyal. Perhaps, there should be a group of youth experts to support the government and private bodies in decision-making; likewise could be consulted in certain cases. This will really urge youth to shoulder the responsibility with the authorities concerned in the country.
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