Photo Credit|Office Of The Rt. Hon. Speaker- RTNLA

The Speaker of South Sudan’s National Transitional Legislative Assembly, Joseph Ngere Päciko, has called for greater investment in character education as a way of addressing the growing challenges of substance abuse, mental health issues and unemployment among young people world wide.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of the seven-day International Youth Fellowship (IYF) 2026 World Camp in Seoul, Republic of Korea, on Saturday, Ngere said today’s youth face increasing pressures that require more than academic knowledge, emphasizing the need for strong values, resilience and leadership.

He said the camp, held from July 12 to 19, delivered a clear message that character development and Mind Education can equip young people with the mindset and skills needed to become responsible leaders and contribute positively to their communities.

Ngere acknowledged the rising challenges of unemployment, conflict, mental health problems, drug abuse and the erosion of moral values affecting young people around the world.

He said programmes such as the IYF Mind Education initiative have demonstrated their potential to transform youth behaviour, strengthen leadership and promote responsible citizenship.

The Speaker urged delegates to return to their home countries as ambassadors of peace and Mind Education, encouraging them to apply the lessons learned during the camp to help build more peaceful, resilient and prosperous societies.

“We acknowledge the rising challenges of unemployment, mental health, conflict, drug abuse and loss of values among young people worldwide. We also acknowledge the positive impact of Mind Education in transforming youth behaviour and leadership across continents,“ Ngere said.

He also commended the International Youth Fellowship for providing a platform that brings together young people from different countries to promote cultural exchange, leadership development and personal growth.

The annual IYF World Camp attracted thousands of young participants from across the globe under the theme of global unity and character development, with activities aimed at nurturing future leaders committed to serving their communities.