Youth symposium on SDGs highlights collective action for future generations
The Pact for the Future recognizes youth as catalysts for change
The Open Space Centre (OSC), in partnership with Crossing Borders and support from the Civil Society in Development (CISU), hosted a one-day Youth Symposium on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on December 21, 2024.
Held on the sidelines of the Pan African University Debate Championship (PAUDC), the symposium centered on the theme “Youth and Future Generations”, emphasising the critical role of youth in shaping a sustainable future.
This initiative builds on OSC’s long-standing efforts to raise awareness about the SDGs among young people, educators, and vulnerable communities.
Since 2016, OSC has worked to simplify the complex goals, ensuring that they remain accessible and actionable for populations at risk of exclusion.
“The Pact for the Future recognizes youth as catalysts for change,” said SC in a statement
“This symposium is an opportunity to highlight their contributions across key areas, ensuring their voices are heard in shaping sustainable solutions.”
The event saw the convergence of over 650 participants, including students, youth leaders, academics, policymakers, and civil society actors.
It was designed to amplify youth engagement and foster collective action toward sustainable development.
Panel discussions explored youth’s role in advancing the Pact for the Future, with special attention given to the following areas:
Climate action:Highlighting the need for young people to sustainably manage ecosystems and natural resources for present and future generations.
Peace: Emphasisung youth’s role in promoting peace in a rapidly changing and complex world.
Technology:Addressing the importance of reducing the digital divide and enhancing technological inclusion across developing nations.
Sports: Discussing how sports can be leveraged to foster community cohesion and support sustainable development.
Culture: Exploring the need for young people to appreciate and preserve cultural diversity for social and economic well-being.
The symposium aligned with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and regional blueprints like Vision 2050 and Agenda 2063.
These frameworks guide sustainable development efforts, integrating local and global commitments.
Discussions were centered around how youth can lead the way in implementing the Pact for the Future, ensuring that no one is left behind.
“This platform is essential for gathering youth perspectives and creating actionable commitments,” emphasized the centre.
“Our focus is on fostering a collaborative approach that advances both local and global development frameworks.”
Through panel discussions and interactive engagements, participants developed actionable recommendations to guide future youth-led initiatives aligned with the SDGs.
The symposium featured a keynote speech followed by panel discussions, providing a space for stakeholders to share insights and commit to actionable outcomes.
Participants included opinion leaders, political actors, academia, media representatives, and youth leaders, reflecting the diverse nature of youth-led development in Uganda and across Africa.
“PAUDC has been a valuable platform for youth to exchange knowledge and influence policy-making,” the centre further stated. “It amplifies the importance of youth involvement in shaping the future we envision.”
