By Aminata Bah

The role of young people in the development of any country cannot be overstated. Nations around the world are built and transformed by the energy, creativity, and innovation of the youth. In developing nations, especially in Africa, young people constitute a significant portion of the population, making them the heartbeat of future growth and sustainability. Sierra Leone is no exception. As we look forward to a brighter future, it becomes imperative that young people understand their critical role in shaping the destiny of the nation, and with that comes the responsibility to live up to expectations.

Young people are often described as the backbone of a nation because they possess the physical strength, mental agility, and dynamism needed to drive social, political, and economic change. In Sierra Leone, with its burgeoning youth population, there is immense potential for growth in areas such as technology, education, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. Young minds are quick to adapt to new technologies and ways of thinking, enabling them to solve problems that older generations might struggle with.

Youth also bring fresh perspectives to issues of national importance. Whether it is advocating for better environmental policies, creating innovative business solutions, or working towards improved healthcare systems, young people have the ability to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. Their enthusiasm and willingness to take risks are key drivers in fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, both of which are critical for a thriving economy.

However, with this potential comes the need for responsibility. Being the future of the country means not only embracing opportunities but also making deliberate efforts to contribute to national development. The future is not something that will happen by chance. It requires planning, discipline, and a commitment to excellence. For young people to fully realize their potential, they must take responsibility for their actions and make conscious efforts to live up to societal expectations.

There is no denying that young people in Sierra Leone, and indeed across Africa, face numerous challenges. Unemployment, poor access to education, and limited opportunities for meaningful engagement in governance are just some of the barriers that prevent the youth from fully contributing to national development. However, it is in overcoming these challenges that true greatness is achieved.

One of the most significant expectations placed on the youth is their ability to be self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to society. In an economy where formal employment is limited, young people must explore alternative avenues, such as entrepreneurship and social enterprises, to create jobs not only for themselves but for others. By developing skills in areas like technology, agriculture, or creative arts, young people can create sustainable businesses that contribute to the nation’s GDP.

There is also a great expectation for youth to take an active role in governance and civic engagement. In Sierra Leone, as in many other African countries, the political landscape has often been dominated by older generations. Yet, the youth are the ones who will inherit the country’s systems and institutions. It is, therefore, critical that young people involve themselves in the decision-making process, advocate for policies that benefit future generations, and hold leaders accountable for their actions. Civic engagement is not just a right; it is a responsibility that young people must embrace.

One of the most powerful tools young people have at their disposal is education. Education not only equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the world, but it also fosters critical thinking, innovation, and leadership. Sierra Leone’s education system has seen significant improvements in recent years, but more work needs to be done to ensure that all young people have access to quality education.

For young people to live up to their full potential, they must take their education seriously. It is not just about earning a certificate or degree; it is about developing the intellectual capacity to solve problems, innovate, and lead. Education must be seen as a lifelong process, one that continues beyond the classroom and into the real world. Young people must also take the initiative to learn new skills, whether through formal education, vocational training, or self-learning, in order to remain competitive in an increasingly globalized economy.

In addition to skills and knowledge, young people must cultivate strong values such as integrity, honesty, and a sense of community. The future of any nation depends not only on the technical abilities of its people but also on their character. For Sierra Leone to progress, it needs young leaders who are ethical, responsible, and committed to the common good. Corruption, selfishness, and short-sightedness will only lead to stagnation and underdevelopment.

Young people must understand that they are not only responsible for themselves but also for the future of their communities and their country. The choices they make today will have lasting consequences for future generations. Whether it is in their personal lives, their businesses, or their engagement in public affairs, young people must strive to make decisions that are in the best interest of the nation.

In conclusion, young people are undeniably the future of Sierra Leone. They are the ones who will shape the country’s economy, lead its institutions, and build its communities. But with this immense potential comes a great responsibility. Young people must rise to the challenge of meeting societal expectations, whether by pursuing education, engaging in civic activities, or developing sustainable businesses. The future will not be handed to them on a silver platter; it is something that must be earned through hard work, integrity, and a commitment to excellence. Only by embracing this responsibility can young people truly fulfil their role as the future leaders of the nation.