SWAKOPMUND – Erongo Regional Youth Forum chairperson Serron Nghoshi has called on the youth in the region to refrain from indulging in illegal activities that will result in them ending up on the wrong side of the law, especially during the festive season.

Nghoshi, in a festive season message provided to Nampa, urged the youth to focus on being responsible and respectable, and to identify the opportunities that are being presented to them to keep them occupied.

“It is obvious that the unemployment rate is a concern, especially amongst the rural youth, as much as it is a national concern. However, this is an issue that can be turned around if the youth can see problems and turn them into opportunities,” he said.

Youth unemployment in Namibia currently stands at over 40%, and it is projected to rise as more graduates complete their studies.

Nghoshi said the activities available for youth in the region include volunteering platforms that various institutions have committed to offer under the direct facilitation of the Regional Youth Office Directorate of both Sport and Youth Development.

“These activities will not only help keep them busy and away from the streets, but empower them with self-knowledge and skills, especially the youth that barely have an educational background. Additionally, the abuse of alcohol among the youth has become a concern; hence, most of them are not able to determine any opportunities and have no reason to become their best,” he said.  - Nampa