Trainees also empowered with entrepreneurial, economic skills
MATHEWS MALAZIKA
Lusaka
THE United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has trained 30,000 boys aged between 14 and 19 from Eastern, Southern and Western provinces in techniques on how to safely transition from childhood to adulthood.
UNFPA country representative Seth Broekman said the boys have also been empowered with entrepreneurial and economic skills, key in the transformation of their lives.
“The boys need to stay away from harmful substance abuse.
That is the reason UNFPA took a bold step to train them in entrepreneurship and other important skills that can positively sustain their lives. These safe spaces are one way of creating dialogue with them so that they become responsible citizens,” Mr Broekman said.
He said safe spaces for boys are important in order for them to discover potential and how they can contribute to national development.
“Our goal through these mentorship programmes is to see change in communities. The boys must be able to contribute to the betterment of their respective communities,” Mr Broekman said.
He said the training for boys will extend to the other provinces as they have proved to be useful in communities.
He said young boys across the country are willing to have a space where they can openly talk about their needs and challenges.
“For us, this is a very important investment because it borders on the lives of our children (boys) and the nation at large. Having this conversation with them has resulted in positive change. We want to see more of this going forward,” Mr Broekman said.
He said it is important for the programme to thrive even in difficult periods…https://enews.daily-mail.co.zm/
