Wenslus Murape
Latwell Nyangu
Government and relevant authorities have been urged to prioritise educating young people about the benefits of technologies beyond entertainment as a way to improve the dissemination of health information and raising awareness about preventative measures, leading to early diagnosis and treatment.
The remarks were made by Students And Youth Working on Reproductive Health Action Team (SAYWHAT) during the commemoration of International Youth Day.
The organisation is proudly commemorating over 20 years of championing the public health and educational rights of young people in Zimbabwe and beyond.
SAYWHAT celebrated the day under the theme “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development”.
In an interview, SAYWHAT, Communications, Advocacy, and Media Lead, Isabella Michael said, they recognise young people’s potential to adopt digital innovations to accelerate their and their peer’s health and wellbeing (SDG3) and access to quality education (SDG4).
“Teaching young people to balance fun and productive activities, providing digital content that captures their interest will contribute towards ensuring youth have necessary skills to leverage digital technologies effectively.
“By leveraging technologies to address health and education challenges, young people can lead the charge in digital adoption and make significant strides towards achieving the 2030 agenda.
“Digital information systems and platforms are improving dissemination of health information, raising awareness about preventative measures, leading to early diagnosis and treatment.
“The intensification of digitalisation is also increasing global health literacy, empowering communities with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health.
“As a result, individuals understand their symptoms, know when to seek for medical help, and are aware of preventative measures.”
Michael said, by providing remote consultations, counselling services, and peer-to-peer support, digital technologies are providing much-needed mental health support among the youth where a rise in suicides is constantly being observed.
“As we commemorate International Youth Day, it is crucial to recognise that empowering youth to harness technology and create sustainable health and education solutions will increase their confidence in managing their well-being and advocating for their needs.
“While digital technologies offer immense potential for sustainable development, many young people may not be fully aware of the potential of digital technologies.
“Moreover, they can get distracted by more entertaining aspects of digitalisation.
“The constant stream of content on social media platforms can make it difficult to focus productive uses of technology and without proper guidance and education, young people might not see the value of digital tools.
“SAYWHAT takes this opportunity to remind stakeholders including government, educational bodies, and civil society, to celebrate young innovators who are using technology to make a positive impact.
“Engaging youth in decision-making processes related to digital technologies will inspire confidence and creativity,” she said.
According to SAYWHAT, they are committed to empower students and youth, enhance their capacity to harness technologies, and create sustainable solutions to the health and education challenges.
“We call upon development organizations and private sector to invest in expanding internet infrastructure to ensure reliable internet connectivity in remote areas.
“We firmly believe that every young person, irrespective of circumstances deserves to thrive and contribute to sustainable development in a more equitable and digital landscape.”
Online Reporter