Editorial

Highlights of President Paul Biya’s Message to Youth

By Shey Peter MABU
12 Feb 2019 11:53
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In his address to Cameroonian youths on the eve of Youth Day celebrations, President Paul Biya appreciated the efforts his administration is making, challenges faced, and spelt out what we should be doing to forge ahead.

Crucial tasks

For our founding fathers, the cause was independence which is inextricably linked to national unity. For their successors, it was the establishment and consolidation of the institutions of the new State. For the next generation, it was the advent of democracy and social progress. For the present generation, it is modernization of the economy and social justice.

Responsible politicking

There is another, more responsible and more commendable, way of being a political activist. By definition, politics refers to the management of society. Voting, standing as a candidate in a election, being elected a municipal or regional councilor, a member of the National Assembly or a senator is engaging in politics in the noble sense of the word. If such is your ambition, do not hesitate to embark on that path for the good of your country.

Assurance

During my swearing-in ceremony last November, I asked you not to lose hope. I am repeating that request today. I am quite aware of your difficulties. I understand your aspiration for change and your desire to be more involved in taking decisions concerning your future. I wish to remind you that tomorrow’s Cameroon will be built with you.

Unemployment

Despite these remarkable actions, our country continues to face the problem of youth unemployment. We all know why. Our economy is not buoyant enough to absorb the tens of youths joining our labour market each year. This also explains why many of them are obliged to accept unskilled jobs to avoid unemployment.

Recruitment

Beside recruitments into the defence and security forces and in some sectors such as education, many ministries have implemented programmes concerning you in particular. There are plans to create no less than 500 000 jobs in 2019. The Government will pursue the operationalization of a forward planning job management system. The strategic thrusts of the Priority Action Plan of the National Employment Policy will continue to be implemented.

Diversification

Access to vocational training will be improved by diversifying sectors and increasing training in new centres. The level of training will be improved through the establishment in Yaoun...