Youth representatives on Tuesday urged Vice President Josephine Lagu Yanga to prioritize youth-focused reforms during high-level talks in Juba.
The delegation, led by SSNYU leadership under the guidance of Taban Paride, said the meeting focused on practical policy interventions needed to address the growing socio-economic challenges facing the country’s youth, particularly in Juba and other urban centers.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Paride said the engagement was aimed at fostering collaboration between youth leaders and government institutions to address long-standing youth grievances.
“During our visit, we discussed numerous issues that we can tackle together, particularly those affecting the youth,” Paride said. “We raised concerns over the alarming rate of youth unemployment and insecurity in Juba.”
The delegation also emphasized the urgent need for Parliament to pass pending youth-related legislation, notably the Student Support Bill, which they said is critical to improving access to education and skills development for young people.
“Education is key to changing these narratives,” Paride added. “A vibrant society depends on vibrant and educated citizens. We must invest in education if we want sustainable peace and development.”
The Youth Union further expressed concern over what it described as inadequate budgetary allocations to youth-focused institutions and programs, despite young people accounting for approximately 72.3 percent of South Sudan’s population. According to the delegation, chronic underfunding of youth initiatives continues to fuel unemployment, violence, and social instability.
They called for increased government investment in youth development programs, including Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), to equip young people with practical skills and expand employment opportunities.
In her response, Vice President Josephine Lagu Yanga welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to youth empowerment and policy reform. She pledged to engage relevant stakeholders to address the concerns raised by the Youth Union.
The Vice President also highlighted ongoing reforms within the Ministry of Labour, including enforcement of the Labour Law provision requiring 80 percent national employment, a measure aimed at increasing job opportunities for South Sudanese citizens.
The South Sudan National Youth Union welcomed the Vice President’s assurances and pledged to work closely with government institutions to advance youth-centered policies and programs, describing youth empowerment as a cornerstone for sustainable national development.
