The balance between conservation and economic development is commonly deemed impossible because of the various aspects involved to enable each of these to work. However, with fresh, well thought out and effective solutions, we can find a balance between environmental conservation and economic growth.
To achieve this, we need young people that are active, passionate, and motivated to advocate for sustainability. The energy and creativity that youth bring to the table are important in shaping solutions that can influence decision-making at policy level, as well as ensure that the needs of future generations are considered. By empowering the youth to raise their voices and act, we can create a future where economic growth and conservation are blended as sustainable development.
On the 23rd of August 2024, the Namibian Youth Chamber of Environment (NYCE) hosted a webinar on Civic Education and Advocacy to encourage young people to influence Namibia’s policies and plans related to sustainable development. Our invited guest, Mr Ndemufayo Kaxuxuena of the Namibia Institute of Democracy (NID), is an expert on civic education in Namibia and therefore the ideal person to address this topic. The meeting was once again facilitated by NYCE’s president Mr Punaete Kandjii.
The Namibia Institute of Democracy is an institute that carries out civic education, civil society development, socio-political surveys and research and anti-corruption programmes, among others, in Namibia.
Mr Kaxuxuena shared that NID collaborates with EduVentures on the EduLink project that has established an Education for Sustainable Development network over the last few years. This project equips educators at Environmental Education Centres that reach teachers and schools in all 14 Namibian regions. The project helps educators and teachers to make lessons on sustainable development that are informative and fun for school children, while also introducing practical projects such as school gardens that put their knowledge into practice.
Key takeaways:
- The role of youth in influencing sustainable development policies is crucial. Mr Kaxuxuena highlighted how young people’s perspectives and innovative ideas are essential for creating inclusive and forward-thinking policies that cater to current and future generations.
- Young people can employ several effective advocacy strategies to make their voices heard, such as engaging in public forums; using social media platforms to raise awareness and generate support; and building networks with like-minded organisations to influence decision-making.
- This discussion acknowledged the possible challenges and opportunities that youth may encounter when getting involved in policymaking. Challenges include limited access to information, lack of representation and resources. The opportunities include mentorship programs, workshops, and collaborations with non-governmental organisations and government agencies.
- NID is ready to assist NYCE and other youth groups with access to materials and information on Namibia’s sustainable development policies, and to provide a platform where youth can connect with experts, policymakers, and other young leaders.
We concluded with a Q&A session where attendees posed questions on various topics, including the role of education in empowering youth for active participation, and the existing resources that Namibian youth can access to find out more. This webinar inspired the 25 NYCE members that attended to actively seek opportunities to participate in the policymaking process, which is not only beneficial but necessary for Namibian sustainable development.
We appreciate Namibia Institute of Democracy for their valuable contribution to this webinar and look forward to future engagements that will achieve our common goal of sustainable development through youth advocacy and action. This webinar was a vital step towards empowering Namibian youth to take an active role in shaping their country’s sustainable future. The Namibian Youth Chamber of Environment remains committed to facilitating such discussions and initiatives in future.
By Trendy Masule
If you would like to join the Namibian Youth Chamber of Environment and be part of an environmental movement of young changemakers (18-35 years of age), please fill out the NYCE Membership Form and we will get back to you!