Some 25 youth leaders from five regions of Cameroon recently received training on basic advocacy skills and global citizenship education in Bamenda. Selected from youth associations, the youths, aged between 18 and 24 years, were trained for two days by Plan Cameroon.

Participants were told that education today tends to be limited to reading of books, writing examinations and getting promoted to the next levels. As a result, children do not actively participate in projects that address global issues. Plan Cameroon, in partnership with the United Nations Educational and Cultural Organisation, UNESCO and Synergies of Action for Development and Education for all, SADEA, organised the workshop.

Workshop participants received lessons on basic advocacy skills and the implementation of pedagogic guidance at all levels of education. According to the Programme Unit Coordinator of Plan Cameroon for the North West Region, Emmanuelle Songbi, they are out to ensure that Cameroonian children become responsible men and women.

Meanwhile, the Divisional Officer for Bamenda III Subdivision, Ayuk Walters Takang, hailed Plan Cameroon and her partners for the initiative. He urged youths to shun scamming, prostitution and early marriages. One of the participants, Salah Kimberly, appreciated the organisation of the workshop, promising to educate her peers when she gets back to her community.