President Hichilema urges youths to remain innovative

President Hakainde Hichilema has called on young people across the country to remain confident, innovative and purposeful as they contribute to national development. Speaking when he graced the Youth Day celebrations in Solwezi District, President Hichilema said youths are leaders of today whose voices play a critical role in decision-making and governance. Mr Hichilema added that education remains a top priority on government’s development agenda, noting that plans are underway to construct a university in North-Western Province to enhance access to higher education.

The Head of State disclosed that land for the institution has already been allocated in Kapijimpanga chiefdom. The President further expressed optimism that the launch of the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission Imisepela platform will help transform the livelihoods of many young people by expanding access to empowerment opportunities. Mr Hichilema added that the wreath-laying ceremony held during the event was a solemn moment of reflection to honour young men and women who sacrificed for Zambia’s independence.

He urged today’s leaders to draw inspiration from their courage and nurture a generation committed to service, unity and progress. Meanwhile, Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Elvis Nkandu said youths across the country actively participated in various National Youth Week activities. Mr Nkandu said the activities included career and entrepreneurship fairs, arts exhibitions, community service programmes, climate action initiatives, youth sports events, youth indabas and town hall engagements.

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He said the platforms provided an opportunity to amplify youth voices, showcase talent and strengthen skills among young people. And North-Western Province Minister, Robert Lihefu, said government has recorded significant progress in improving the welfare of youths in the province through programmes such as free education, secondary school bursaries and skills development initiatives under the Constituency Development Fund(CDF).

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