The National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) has engaged young people of the Upper River Region (URR) in a dialogue on inclusive participation, integrity, and resilient elections.
The event, held Tuesday at the Basse Area Council conference hall, brought together youth leaders from across the region, officials of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), staff of the NCCE, and other stakeholders.
Facilitators emphasised the importance of youth involvement in democratic processes, noting that integrity and resilience are key pillars for credible elections. Discussions centered on empowering young people to actively participate in civic life and safeguard democratic values.
The initiative, supported by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic governance and promote inclusive participation across The Gambia.
Hon. Assanatou Jallow, Youth Representative of URR, highlighted the relevance of the training sessions being conducted ahead of the much-anticipated presidential election. She noted that the sessions equip young people with knowledge of their rights and responsibilities in the electoral process.
“The training helps the youths to understand the roles attached to us in ensuring a credible and peaceful election,” she stated.
Hon. Jallow further urged her peers to take responsibility in creating awareness, sensitization, and advocating for peaceful participation before, during, and after the elections. She stressed that youth, as the backbone of society, must lead by example in promoting peace and unity throughout the electoral process.
Muhammed Kargbo, a participant, described the NCCE training on Responsible Reporting as transformative.
“It was interactive, practical, and timely breaking down complex issues into simple actions we can apply immediately. As a young leader, I have gained invaluable lessons that I am eager to put into practice within my community,” he said.
Kargbo emphasised that youths are not just important in elections but are central to them. He noted that in The Gambia, over 60 percent of voters are youth, making them decisive in shaping the nation’s future.
“We are the majority of the voters, the majority of the population, and the majority of the energy that drives this nation. No one wins without us. We decide who leads,” he stated.
He added that beyond campaigns and ballots, young people are voting for their own future jobs, education, justice, and opportunity. “If we don’t vote, we allow others to decide our destiny,” he concluded.
This engagement forms part of broader efforts to ensure that elections in The Gambia are not only free and fair but also reflective of the voices of all citizens, especially the youth who represent a significant portion of the electorate.
