The
United Nations (UN) System in The Gambia, in partnership with the Government of
the Islamic Republic of The Gambia, will join the rest of World to commemorate
UN Day on Monday 24 October 2016.
The
Day serves as a global advocacy event, offering a unique opportunity for the
international community to reflect on and take stock of the work of the
organization.
It
is also an occasion for the global community to renew commitments and redouble
its efforts for Humanity under Agenda 2030 to meet both the current and future
challenges across the three pillars of its work, namely Peace and Security,
Development, and, Human Rights.
‘‘Engaging Youth in Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs) Promotion and Implementation’’ is the chosen national theme for
this year`s UN Day, which marks the 71ST birthday of the organization.
The
theme aims to raise awareness on the SDGs and their importance to the
attainment of national development targets.
Activities
to mark the Day will include a highlight event as well as an exhibition of
publications by the various UN agencies.
The
event is hosted by St. Peter`s Senior Secondary School in Lamin, Kombo North
District, West Coast Region. The ceremony will be entertained by the School
Drama Group and Choir.
The
UN Resident Coordinator will read the UN Secretary General’s statement followed
by a statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs on behalf of the Government.
The
Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources will launch the
first SDG Club in schools. The Executive Director of the National Youth Council
will do a presentation on Youth in SDG promotion and Implementation.
The
climax of the programme will be the launching of the first ever SDG Clubs in Schools
and the awarding of prizes and certificates to winners of the UN Day Essay
Competition.
The
competition was jointly organized by the UN and the Gambia Association of
Teachers of English (GATE) for students in the four educational levels (Lower
Basic, Upper Basic, Senior Secondary Schools and Tertiary institutions).
SOURCE:
UN Press Release (Gambia)