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

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