Youth Are Shaping a More Inclusive Future

Today, August 12, the world celebrates International Youth Day a global event recognizing the contributions, energy, and potential of young people. More than just a ceremony, it’s a moment to highlight their essential role in addressing global challenges and shaping a better future.

This year’s theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” emphasizes the importance of youth led initiatives in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In line with this, EBPP students have shown how small actions can lead to meaningful change. Through creative and community-based approaches, they support goals like quality education, gender equality, and most critically preventing child marriage.

These students are not just participants; they are changemakers. Using their voices, creativity, and technology, they launched impactful campaigns such as Photovoices, short films, and original songs advocating for children’s rights and education. They shared these messages on social media and through presentations at schools, community gatherings, and local government meetings.

Their efforts didn’t stop at raising awareness. Their advocacy led to real change with the approval of a pararem - a customary law setting the legal minimum age for marriage in line with national law. This milestone was achieved in 15 of the 19 desa adat (customary villages) in their area, marking a significant shift in local policy and community norms.

This achievement is more than a legal victory; it is proof of the power of youth-led movements to drive lasting, community-based solutions. A fair and sustainable future cannot be achieved without the voice and action of youth!

By: Widiyasri, EBPP Youth Empower Facilitator