YFS DRAFT
With three out of five Africans under the age of 25, the imperative of including and empowering young people in our societies’ development has never been more critical. Unfortunately, the current approach by governments, international institutions, and the private sector often falls short, characterized more by symbolic gestures than genuine collaboration.
Against this backdrop, the Consortium Jeunesse Sénégal (CJS) organized a groundbreaking learning event on May 7th in Dakar, Senegal. This event marked the inaugural gathering focused on the Youth Friendly Standards a revolutionary tool designed in Senegal to transform youth engagement across Africa and beyond.
“This event marks a pivotal moment in our collective journey. It’s an opportunity to reflect on our progress since the inception of the Youth Friendly Standards pilot program. Feedback from our partners and the youth involved reaffirms the transformative potential of our initiative.
These stories underscore the work ahead and the immense potential young people hold worldwide,” remarked Koffi Assouan, Executive Director of Youth Friendly Standards.
Developed by the Consortium Jeunesse Sénégal in collaboration with WeBridge Africa, Generation Unlimited, the Mastercard Foundation, UNICEF, the European Union, and over 100 young leaders, the Youth Friendly Standards provide a roadmap for organizations, institutions, and governments seeking to integrate young people’s lived experiences systematically. Launched at the United Nations Annual Meeting in New York in September 2023, these standards pave the way for a future where youth are not passive spectators but active agents of change.
“Involving young people is a critical challenge. Those involved in development understand that doing better for youth means doing better with youth. Without standards to guide this process, it remains a theoretical discussion rather than a tangible reality. The Youth Friendly Standards offer us a unique opportunity to transform ecosystems and profoundly impact young lives,” stated Sobel Aziz Ngom, President and Executive Director of Consortium Jeunesse Sénégal.
The adoption of Youth Friendly Standards represents a tangible step toward inclusive governance. Embracing these standards enables stakeholders not only to address young people’s needs effectively but also to unleash their full potential as drivers of progress and innovation.
Strategic Pathways for Collaboration
The success of the Youth Friendly Standards initiative hinges on collaborative efforts across sectors. Here's how stakeholders can engage strategically:
Participate in Learning Events: Attend workshops and forums hosted by Youth Friendly Standards to deepen understanding and share best practices in youth engagement.
Implement Youth Friendly Standards: Integrate the principles of Youth Friendly Standards into organizational frameworks and policies to foster inclusive practices.
Partner for Impact: Collaborate with Consortium Jeunesse Sénégal and supporting organizations to co-create initiatives that amplify youth voices and address local challenges.
Advocate for Change: Advocate for the adoption of Youth Friendly Standards within governmental and institutional policies to institutionalize youth inclusion and empowerment.
Support Youth-Led Initiatives: Invest in and mentor young leaders driving innovative solutions aligned with Youth Friendly Standards to catalyze sustainable development.
Join The Journey
As we navigate towards a future where youth are not just beneficiaries but architects of their destinies, Youth Friendly Standards stand as a beacon of hope and empowerment. Join us in charting this transformative journey, where together, we can build inclusive societies that harness the full potential of every young person. Learn about the framework.
For more information on how to get involved, visit Youth Friendly Standards and follow us on social media for updates and opportunities.