By Chol D. Johnson
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to investing in young people as a foundation for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strengthening humanitarian response efforts.
This is according to a statement issued Friday by the Ministry of Public Service and Human Resource Development.
The statement followed a courtesy visit by the Minister of Public Service and Human Resource Development, Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth, to the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Albino Akol Atak, on Thursday.
“The meeting reflects a shared government vision of investing in young people as a foundation for sustainable development and a more effective humanitarian response across the country,” the ministry’s press unit said.
According to the statement, discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between the two ministries, particularly in building youth capacity and improving humanitarian response mechanisms in the Upper Nile region, where communities continue to face significant challenges.
Minister Albino Akol Atak said the engagement centered on enhancing youth skills and creating meaningful pathways for their participation in nation-building efforts. He reiterated the government’s commitment to reducing vulnerability among affected populations and ensuring safe and unhindered access for humanitarian actors.
For his part, Minister Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth said the visit provided an opportunity to deliberate on strategic approaches to empowering young people through structured mentorship programs and coordinated government action.
Both ministers emphasized the urgent need to position youth as key actors in building resilient communities and supporting humanitarian interventions, particularly in regions facing protracted crises.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from both ministries to explore practical ways of enhancing youth engagement in national development initiatives and humanitarian response efforts.