Kassala: The Second National Youth Conference on addressing youth issues began on Saturday in Kassala State, hosted from June 6 to 9 under the slogan: 'Youth of Hope. Arms of Construction. Minds of Development,' with participation from 13 states.
According to Sudan News Agency, the opening session was attended by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Professor Ahmed Adam Ahmed; the Acting Wali of Kassala State, Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Al-Sadiq Mohamed Al-Azraq; the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Dr. Hani Ahmed Taj El-Sir; along with state youth and sports ministers, executive and military leaders in Kassala, community figures, and youth representatives from participating states.
In his remarks, the Minister of Youth and Sports paid tribute to the martyrs of the 'Battle of Dignity,' stressing that the conference reflects recognition of the vital role of youth in shaping the future and building the nation. He noted that young people were the driving force in the 'Battle of Dignity' and are now key agents in reconstruction efforts.
He explained that hosting the conference in Kassala builds on the outcomes of the first conference, whose recommendations have been reflected across various sectors, adding that the aim is not merely to hold discussions but to create space for innovation and empower youth participation.
For his part, the Acting Wali of Kassala welcomed hosting the national event, describing it as an opportunity for experience-sharing and a platform that brings together Sudanese youth under the banner of nation-building. He said the event reflects the state's capacity to host national activities and reaffirmed that youth represent the country's true wealth.
The Wali highlighted key challenges facing young people, particularly education, training, employment opportunities, and the reinforcement of national and moral values. He stressed that real investment lies in youth as a national necessity, citing their role in supporting the armed forces during the 'Battle of Dignity.'
He called on youth to take the lead in rebuilding institutions affected by war, promoting peace culture, strengthening voluntary community work, combating hate speech, and enhancing social cohesion and peaceful coexistence, as well as leveraging social media to support these goals.