In today’s fast-paced, digital world, with the rise of technology and social media, young people have more opportunities than ever to connect, learn, and grow. By allowing access to education, enhancing their learning skills and problem solving capacity, easing access to information around the world, as well as facilitating social connection on a global scale, digital technology is supporting and altering the lives of young people in various ways.
Owing to this and other important reasons, investing in digital technology and developing the knowledge and skills of the young people in digital literacy is becoming more imperative than before for countries to go along with the ever changing world and help young people to gain an edge in every aspect, including in the job market.
Obviously, digital literacy goes beyond knowing how to use a computer or smartphone; it includes the ability to navigate online platforms, evaluate information critically, and communicate effectively in a digital environment. By teaching youth these skills, digital platforms empower them to succeed in the modern world.
Currently, one of the most significant benefits of digital platforms for youth empowerment is the easy access to information and education. Through platforms like online courses, educational videos, and e-books, young people can learn about a wide range of topics from the comfort of their homes. This accessibility breaks down barriers to education and allows youth from all backgrounds to expand their knowledge and skills.
In today’s digital age, young people have a powerful voice that can reach a global audience in seconds. Through social media platforms, blogs, podcasts, and online videos, youth can share their thoughts, ideas, and experiences with the world. This ability, to express themselves, empowers youth to advocate for change, raise awareness about important issues, and inspire others to take action.
Therefore, digital platforms provide young people with the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals around the world. Whether through social media, online forums, or networking sites, youth can build valuable relationships and communities that support their personal and professional growth. These connections can lead to mentorship opportunities, collaborations, and even job offers, enhancing the overall empowerment of youth. As technology continues to advance, digital skills are becoming increasingly valuable in the job market. By engaging with digital platforms, youth can develop essential skills such as coding, graphic design, social media marketing, and online communication. These skills not only enhance their employability but also prepare them for the future workforce, where digital literacy is a must.
With this same intention, recently, the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs in partnership with UNICEF launched U-Report, UNICEF’s digital engagement platform for adolescents and young people.
The platform was officially launched in the presence of the Women and Social Affairs Minister Ergoge Tesfaye (PhD), UNICEF Ethiopia Representative Aboubacar Kampo (MD), along with senior government officials, donor community, civil society organizations, youth, and several UN agencies.
“The launch of U-Report in Ethiopia is not just a technological advancement; it is a testament to our commitment to empowering our young people and giving them a voice in the decisions that shape their future,” said Women and Social Affairs Minister Ergoge Tesfaye (PhD).
According to the Minister, launching the app is a bold step forward in fostering a culture of civic engagement, where young citizens are not merely bystanders, but active agents of change.
“Young people have a great potential for fostering positive development and progress within any society. U-Report gives youth a platform to express their most pressing issues as well as opportunities to learn and collaborate with one another,” said Dr. Aboubacar Kampo (MD), UNICEF Representative in Ethiopia.
Driven by their real-time insights and solutions, U-Report has become a powerful tool for youth that is helping to shape policies and decisions in communities, globally receiving an average of 2.4 million responses per month. U-Report empowers young people to find out about issues that affect them, act, and become part of the change they want to see.
In addition, the platform has significantly contributed to health information dissemination and awareness creation, especially during disease outbreaks. For example, in Zambia, voluntary HIV testing rates increased from 24 percent to 40 percent due to U-Report’s influence. Youth voices are increasingly being heard, influencing institutional actions, and contributing to active youth engagement, it was learnt.
U-Report is available via numerous social media, Telegram, WhatsApp, and FB messenger having two main functions: collecting adolescent and youth opinions via polls and communicating information to support their well-being and skills development.
Globally, U-Report is partnering with over 35 million U-Reporters in 99 countries worldwide. The platform is available in different languages in Ethiopia – Amharic, Oromiffa, Somali, and Tigrinya and young people can become U-Reporters by sending a message directly via U-Report Global in Facebook or via the Telegram bot (https://t.me/ureportethiopia_bot) or the website (https://ethiopia.ureport.in/).
It is learned that U-Report aims to engage young people in shaping policies and decisions at all levels. It is stated that registered users can receive critical information, interact with engaging chatbots, and contribute to creating a better world for everyone.
Globally, U-Report is partnering with more than 35 million U- Reporters in 99 countries worldwide.
Launched in Uganda in 2011 for the first time, U-Report app has since expanded to over 90 countries and 35 million users globally. The platform enables adolescents and youth to speak out on the issues that concern them and receive useful life-saving information. Over the past 13 years, the app has been able to scale up and make a difference thanks to the support of governments, partners, and UNICEF offices that have amplified youth voices and made participation through U-Report engaging and accessible for all, with special focus on the most marginalized.
In sum, digital platforms play a vital role in empowering today’s youth by providing access to information and education, building networks and communities, amplifying youth voice, and developing essential digital skills.
BY TEWODROS KASSA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 22 JUNE 2024