Youth Empowerment
A Critical Necessity in Lebanon
Youth empowerment has been a prominent topic for over a decade, globally and locally, often surfacing in discussions about expatriation, unemployment, political change, or economic reforms. Young people represent a significant demographic force which embodies innovation, energy, and resilience- traits necessary to tackle challenges and inspire change. In a country like Lebanon, packed with crises and hurdles, youth empowerment is needed more than ever.Empowering youth is essential for them to realize their potential, autonomy, and worth. Investing in their empowerment enables them to take charge of their lives by acquiring skills, knowledge, and opportunities.
Discussions carried on with Lebanese youth underscore empowerment as one of the drivers that motivate them to remain in their country and contribute to its development; instead of searching for opportunities for development and growth abroad. Educational and economic empowerment are indispensable for their personal growth and career building. More importantly, youth empowerment is vital for navigating the prevailing economic challenges in the country. This involves nurturing essential skills that give them the know-how and the confidence to enter the job market, instill innovation, uplift the employment sector, and pursue their desired careers.
Youth empowerment is often linked with sustainable development. To achieve this on the governance front, the public policies towards youth must ensure they have access to the necessary tools and opportunities needed to succeed and lead changes within their communities and beyond. The government needs to address youth challenges related to quality education, unemployment, and civic participation- these are the areas most advocated by youth. In turn, their engagement in decision-making is essential for unlocking and ensuring long-term sustainability as they are vital agents of change, offering unique perspectives characterized by innovation, adaptability, and intrinsic motivation to secure their future.
Lebanese youth express the need to bridge various educational gaps: those between school and university, between university and the job market, and between the private and public education sectors. In their point of view, national school curricula should be revisited to enhance the development of soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. Additionally, they advocate for increased technology integration, improved sports and arts education, and support for unique talents. Many Lebanese youth also believe that university programs should better align with job market demands, locally and across the borders, by incorporating technology into learning, ensuring internships and apprenticeships that are indispensable for the hands-on experiences that many Lebanese youth crave, and offering job training programs that meet the needs of current and emerging industries. Also, educational institutions may further empower youth by offering life-long learning opportunities such as offering skill development programs and vocational training centers.
“School programs should be more diverse to encourage and empower all talents; especially artistic ones and sports; which are commonly marginalized. School education and orientation is very weak and misleading to the reality in the job market.”
Youth empowerment is also vital on the financial and economic fronts. Basic financial education is considered essential for young people to effectively manage their finances and make informed decisions. Many Lebanese youth recommend such an initiative, particularly in the light of the banking sector crisis and the shift to a cash-based economy.
Additionally, startups and entrepreneurship are key areas that some Lebanese youth would like to venture in. However, hesitation often rises due to a lack of knowledge or limited funds. Empowering youth in this area is essential through developing their business skills and facilitating access to credit, mentorship, and business development service, which can help transform innovative ideas into sustainable businesses.
“Everyone one of us needs basic business skills, regardless of the nature of our studies. For instance, every type of business needs marketing skills to be able to operate – need to know who, when, where, and how to promote a talent, product, or a service”
Youth empowerment is not just a trending topic but a critical necessity, particularly in countries like Lebanon facing numerous crises and challenges. Empowering youth involves equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities essential for motivating them to remain in their country and contribute to its development, boosting both personal growth and economic resilience.