Mr Dibba said dialogue remains vital, assuring participants that government is listening, and explained that limited budgets require focused, well-monitored projects rather than overstretching resources.
Speaking on Tuesday at a town hall meeting in Janjangbureh as part of the Ministry’s ongoing nationwide tour, Mr Dibba delivered a wide ranging address touching on education, migration, drug abuse, skills development and national responsibility.
He described youth issues as cross-cutting national concerns and said some matters raised would be addressed by his technical team and heads of institutions present.
Further, he began by advising young people to take meetings seriously. He expressed concern that many participants were not taking notes, urging them to always understand the subject of meetings beforehand, prepare, write key points, and conduct personal research afterwards.
According to him, preparation makes young people smarter and better equipped for a changing world, stressing that development itself means change. He said poor preparation is a habit that cuts across all levels and must be corrected.
Mr Dibba also emphasised the role of parents, saying town hall meetings should not be for youths alone. He said proper guidance from parents and elders is fundamental in a young person’s life, urging families not to discourage education. Drawing from personal experience, he said at 57years old, he is still in school, reminding youths that learning has no age limit.
On drug abuse and irregular migration, the Permanent Secretary described both as global problems affecting all countries. He warned about the dangers of migration, including harsh weather, loss of life and exploitation, calling on parents to stop pressuring their children to leave the country. He said the glorification of migrants returning from Europe hides harsh realities and fuels false expectations.
“There is no shortcut in life, linking the desire for quick success to drug abuse and illegal activities.” He urged youths to think productively and plan for life beyond retirement, stressing the importance of acquiring practical skills.
Using examples from across the country, Mr Dibba, cited young welders, gardeners and former soldiers who are now employing others. He said if every young person employed even 10 people, unemployment would drastically reduce.
He warned that excessive migration creates gaps in agriculture, education and development, and could turn the country into one dominated by foreigners. He also cautioned that illegal activities abroad fuel resentment against immigrants, as seen in other countries.
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