Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, has continued to amplify the voice of young people at the global stage.
Minister Badjie was speaking as a panelist at a high-level side event organised by the Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum in partnership with the Ministry of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Türkiye.
In his remarks on the topic “Youth Innovation for Sustainable Development: Strengthening Inclusive Technology Ecosystems at a time the world is racing towards the 2030 Agenda”, Minister Badjie underscored the growing impact of young people in shaping solutions to real challenges from unemployment to climate change and social inclusion.
He noted that in The Gambia and beyond, youth are not waiting for change; they are creating it.
Potential alone is not enough, he said, stating that real progress demands deliberate investment in digital skills, entrepreneurship, and enabling environments that allow young innovators to thrive.
He highlighted three urgent priorities, saying they are: expanding access to funding, internet and mentorship, ensuring inclusion of women, rural youth and marginalized communities, and strengthening partnerships across sectors.
Minister Badjie calls for education systems that nurture creativity, critical thinking, and digital competence - skills essential for today’s world.
He maintained that young people are not just beneficiaries of development; they are key partners in building resilient economies and a more inclusive, sustainable future.
The youth and sports minister also emphasised the Gambian government’s strong commitment to addressing the needs and expanding opportunities for young people.
Young people are active creators of solutions to issues like climate change and economic development, he argues, saying he would continue to advocate for policy changes that empower young people in The Gambia and across the globe.
It would be recalled that Minster Badjie recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen sport and youth development cooperation.
