The event which was marked in a form a dialogue, was the first of its kind to be celebrated in the country since the inception of council.
Besides, the forum accorded members an opportunity to deliberate on some critical issues affecting the progress of youth in the city and the way forward.
It would be recalled that the day was recognised by the United Nations General Assembly on the 17th of December 1999, and the first celebration took place on the 12th of August 2000. It has been 24 years since it was initiated to ensure that young people's efforts and contributions towards the development of their societies and communities are acknowledged and recognised.
At the event, Abdoulie Kurubally, youth councillor gave an account of what he has been doing together with others to find a way of resolving the challenges facing young people in Banjul.
He also highlighted some of the gains made on his watch since assuming office at youth councillor.
Those, he said, include, influencing policy decision, community engagement, advocacy on critical issues and youth empowerment initiatives, skill development, among a host of others.
“I have contributed to the development of youth-oriented policies within the council, thereby creating space for more internships for young graduates especially organised groups in Council’s activities. This include community initiatives, which leads to Parliamentary Youth Council and other youth groups leading the COVID-19 response-related activities that were initiated by the council.”
Krubally stated that under his leadership, the budget allocation for BYC was increased from $250,000 to over a million dollars and is now under the control of BCC.
He also mentioned that they are currently facing challenges with BCC in ensuring that all budget allocations are transferred to the BYC account.
This, he added, is to enable BYC to independently carry out its own activities, and report to the council.
‘We have only successfully managed to utilize the NAYCONF funds and provide materials to young people at their level.’
The event attended was by the National Assembly Member for Banjul Central, Deputy Mayor of Banjul, President of The Gambia Press Union and a cross section of the community.
