High youth unemployment unacceptable-JCTR

The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has called on government and other stakeholders to invest in young people in order to create an army of responsible youths in the country.

JCTR Executive Director Leonard Chiti said investing in youths can eventually create a sustainable socio-economic environment in Zambia.

Fr. Chiti said it was imperative that the youths are prepared at an early age for them to have a firm foundation especially that young people were leaders of tomorrow.

He told ZANIS in Lusaka today that the high unemployment levels in the country among the young people was unacceptable and therefore needed urgent attention.

"It is high time the young people begin to experience the benefits of economic growth, such as a stable democratic dispensation, a positive economic environment and a good electoral process," he said.

Fr. Chiti pointed out that Youth and Sport Minister Vincent Mwale should take a policy shift towards rewarding young people in the carpentry, electrical, auto mechanics and other professions.

He said young people must be encouraged to mark the youth day responsibly.

Zambia yesterday celebrated youth day under the theme, ‘The youth, building a stable and sustainable future’.