Challenges of Urban Youth Participation in Environmental Protection: A case Study of Dilla Town
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Date
2007-12
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Demographically, the youth group constitutes the majority of the world's population. Despite their
numerical superiority, youth participation in developmental endeavors is very low. The major reasons for
this may be related to societal attitudes, socio-cultural and economic barriers, and lack of proper
organization.
This research explores the constraints of urban youth participation in development activities particularly
in environmental protection activities in Dilla town. The research was conducted in the three kebels of the
town by using both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The data collection methods
included field survey, in-depth interview and focus group discussions. The survey data was collected from
135 randomly sampled youths and 25 respondents, who were selected purposively as key informants.
The major challenges that are identified by the study include: limited knowledge of the youth as well as
the community on environmental problems and their solutions, absence of adult initiatives, lack of
support from formal and informal illstitutions, absence of strong youth organizations to encourage
participation of youth in environmental protection, lack of incentives, mismanagement of the youth
organization, lack of policy advocacy(such as youth policy, envirollmental policy etc) to create
awareness, lack of holistic approach and the weak relationship between the youth and the local
admin istration.
The above challenges can be solved by giving due attentioll to this neglected part of the society in whom
huge potential for sustainable development is available. The youth participation in environmental
protection programs should assure individual gains; awareness of their environment; acquiring and
exchange of knowledge, values, skills, experiences that will enable them to act individually or collectively
to solve present and future environmental problems. Promotion of strong youth organization and
environmental clubs is of paramount importance. Communication strategies that are relevant to youth are
necessmy if young people are to remain motivated and initiated. There has to be a paradigm shift in terms
of how adults and the government think about youth. Plans should be shared openly with adult decisionmakers
in intergenerational discussions.
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Keywords
Environmental Protection