My Age Zimbabwe recently conducted a Capacity Strengthening Session on Policy Development activity, focusing on empowering young people to actively participate in shaping policies that directly impact their lives. A core objective of the session was to equip young people with the knowledge and technical expertise required to develop persuasive policy briefs, These briefs specifically target pressing issues facing Zimbabwean youth, with a particular emphasis on Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) and related policy concerns.
The program delved into critical policy areas including the Age of Consent, focusing on its implications for youth access to essential services; access to Healthcare, identifying and addressing existing barriers; Meaningful Participation, promoting active youth involvement in decision-making; comprehensive Sexual Education, highlighting its role in preventing unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions; and Youth Unemployment, exploring solutions to address high unemployment rates and skills gaps.
Participants gained a thorough understanding of the nature, function, and impact of policy briefs. Crucially, the program emphasized the key ingredients for crafting successful and influential briefs. These included: clarity and conciseness in communication; relevance and timeliness in addressing contemporary youth concerns; evidence-based arguments supported by data and case studies; action-oriented recommendations proposing concrete solutions; and a clear understanding of the targeted audience to ensure effective messaging.
The Capacity Strengthening on Policy Development initiative marks a significant stride towards empowering Zimbabwean youth. By fostering the ability to develop compelling policy briefs addressing their unique challenges, this program cultivates a generation of informed and engaged young leaders. The discussions and insights gleaned will undoubtedly enhance their understanding of the policy-making process and inspire proactive involvement in building a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
