By Ben TC Brooks
River Gee County – Youth Advocate Randy Nuch Brickson, is urging the creation of Local Youth Councils and Advisory Boards nationwide, to enhance youth development.
His request comes amid rising concerns about the lack of youth representation in political structures, particularly following the appointment of over 125 local government officials in River Gee County.
Brickson pointed out that none of the presidential appointees in the River Gee County, under the leadership of Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., are young people.
“The future of our nation is in the hands of its youth,” said Brickson, who maintained that it’s essential for young people to have a voice in the decision-making processes within their counties, districts, and communities.
“If we are excluded, we risk alienating an entire generation filled with the energy, vision, and creativity essential for driving meaningful change,” said Brickson during a recent local radio broadcast in River Gee County.
He stressed the importance of establishing a Local Government Youth Council and Advisory Board to facilitate young people’s involvement in local decision-making.
Brickson believes that such councils would provide critical platforms for young people to express their views, share ideas, and influence policies that directly affect their lives.
He noted that it would be highly beneficial for the Liberian government to ensure youth inclusion in every county appointment aimed at fostering youth employment.
The Youth Advocate asserted that appointing local officials in counties without young representatives is not only short-sighted but also jeopardizes the country’s future.
He intoned that many young people in the 15 political sub-divisions, especially in River Gee, possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and creativity to address the challenges faced in local governance.
“Excluding youth from governance not only stifles their potential but also compromises the effectiveness of the government,” Brickson emphasized.
He expressed the hope that the lack of youth representation sends a negative message to young individuals about their importance in shaping the nation’s future.
Randy Nuch Brickson is recognized for his long-standing commitment to advocating for Liberian youth, particularly in River Gee, southeastern Liberia.
