Youth advocates Emmanuel and Diko spoke on the Dawn Show|By Awan Moses

South Sudan youth advocates are calling for greater youth participation in decision-making, increased investment in education and employment, and stronger support for young women.

The call comes as South Sudan joins the world in marking International Youth Day 2026 under the theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”

Speaking on Eye Radio’s Dawn Show, youth advocates Janet Diko and Dr Emmanule said young people should have a genuine role in decisions affecting their future.

Dr Emmanule said youth participation should go beyond attending workshops and conferences.

“The youth have to be engaged in policymaking processes… They have to be part of it so that they contribute their ideas that will affect their future.”

Diko said young women, who make up a significant proportion of the country’s young population, are often invited to events without being involved in decision-making.

“Most times, you’re not even involved in the decision-making processes.”

The advocates also linked youth unemployment and idleness to drug abuse and other social challenges.

Dr Emmanule urged the government to invest in education, job creation and youth-led businesses.

“The government needs to think of a way of engaging these youth… invest in education… [and] job creation, which is very important.”

Diko also raised concerns about the digital divide, saying many young people do not have access to smartphones and other technology.

The advocates urged young people to reject drug abuse, gang activities and violence, and instead focus on education, employment and building a better future.