However, we tend to believe these two talks about love and sacrifice for one's nation.
When one has a sense of nationalism, he or she will automatically have a sense of patriotism. It is therefore crucial for curriculum developers to see how to incorporate these two important values in the country's education system.
This, we believe, would not only enhance the skills and potential of young people, but would also make them productive citizens.
On Tuesday, the president of the Republic, Adama Barrow presided over the certifications and decorations of 1,650 young people with gold medals at the President's International Award (PIA).
Established by Act of the National Assembly, PIA is a non- Governmental Agency under the Ministry of Youth and Sports. It is fully licenced by the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation to work in the interest of young people in The Gambia
However, the presence of the President of the Republic, Adama Barrow during the decorations and award ceremony speaks volumes and how he valued the programme.
However, this award ceremony could not have come at a better time when the country is working on all fronts to empower and expose young people to different avenues to positively contribute their quota to national development.
The programme is indeed worthy of commendations and will go a long way in curbing irregular migration that is posing serious challenges to developing countries.
What makes this programme symbolic is the fact that it gives opportunity to youth to be able to initiate and create jobs.
Looking at its composition, some of the participants include, school dropouts, community youth, young mothers (divorcees), returnees and juveniles, who have served their term, orphans and young people who cannot access the formal school system.
In essence, the programme is not only developing the mindset of youth, but also teaching and exposing them to valuable insights to be productive leaders.
PIA since inception has played and continues to demonstrate a pivotal role in molding and instilling a sense of responsibility in thousands of young people.
Some of the participants that underwent intense training through this noble programme, are now positively contributing their quota to national development, with Youth and Sports Minister Bakary Badjie as a typical example.
The programme has not only boosted the morale of the young people, but also plays a key role in building exceptional characters.
Cognizance of the fact that youth constitutes a significant portion of the country's population, therefore coming up with programmes and policies designed to empower and make them productive citizens is indeed a laudable move.
We therefore commend the government of The Gambia and instructors at PIA for all the youth empowerment initiatives.
It is only through an enabling environment that people would have the opportunity to harness and exploit their potential.
Undoubtedly, the Gambia is gifted with a number of exceptional and amazing talented youth. And this youth programme would only build on their achievements and make the country compete with others.
