Nursery Schools Kept Out of Youth Day Festivities

By Boris Esono in Buea

Susan Fende Lyonga, Regional Delegate of Youth Affairs and Civic Education talking to the press

Preparations ahead of the 52nd edition of the National Youth Day have gone in to full gear in the South West Region and Buea in particular. During a preparatory meeting held in Buea last 18 January, officials made it known that the 2018 edition will not see the participation of nursery school children.

                The information was made known by the head of Division for economic, social and cultural affairs at the SW Governor’s office, Mathew Theophile Ndumbe as he chaired the first preparatory meeting ahead of the celebration.

                He used the opportunity to also call on all stakeholders to work together to make this year’s youth Day celebration a successful one.

                “All actors should work together as a team to ensure that this year’s celebration is a success throughout the South West Region,” Ndumbe prayed.

                According to the Regional Delegate of Youth Affairs and Civic Education, Susan Fende Lyonga, this year’s edition has some peculiarities.

                “This year, the celebration will be carried out in one week. We are going to spread the campaign of civic education; national integration, volunteerism, community service amongst others.” She said.

                During a question and answer session, it emerged that gadgets like handbags, phones, high-heeled shoes will not be authorized.

                Youths in political parties were also encouraged to be brought to the table of discussions as they are often relegated to the background since youth day is not only for school children.

                Also, the 2018 match pass will take place at Bongo square and not as last time where various venues where in place. This according to the various officials is due to the present socio-political crisis that is going on in the region.

                The various stakeholders at the end of the meeting resolved to set up 13 committees to oversee the organization of different activities towards the celebration this year. The next preparatory meeting is scheduled for January 24th as actors continue to prepare for the celebration.

                Youth Day in Cameroon is observed every 11 February. Parades, games, arts and sport competitions characterize the day.

                The President of the Republic usually addresses the youths on the eve of the celebrations.