“SEIZE OPPORTUNITIES,” CIVIC LEADER TELLS YOUTHS

By Scoop Reporter

Dave Chipande, ward councilor of Justine Kabwe in the Central Province, urged youths to take advantage of skill development opportunities provided by the government to improve their lives.

Mr Chipande stated in an interview that it was challenging for civic leaders to witness the government providing opportunities for youth to better themselves, only for those opportunities to go unclaimed. He emphasized the importance of addressing the root cause of the issue and advocating for laws that would prevent youths from engaging in harmful activities, to protect their future.

He noted that approximately 60 percent of his constituency’s population consists of youths, highlighting the significance of investing in young people for the future.

Mr Chipande expressed concern over the destructive behaviors, such as drug abuse, that are preventing youths from becoming future leaders. He mentioned that despite efforts to provide skills development opportunities through the Constituency Development Fund, some youths, particularly those struggling with addiction, fail to fully embrace these opportunities. He elaborated on how these individuals may begin training programs only to abandon them later, succumbing to destructive habits such as excessive drinking and smoking.

The civic leader stressed the need for supportive legislation to protect public health and prevent further harm to young people.