Minister of Youth and Sports, Haj Majid Siwar, officially adopted the declaration that came out the Youth Forum held in celebration of the International Youth Day, 2010 under the global theme of Dialogue and Mutual Understanding.

Khartoum, August 11, 2010. Minister of Youth and Sports, Haj Majid Siwar, officially adopted the declaration that came out the Youth Forum held in celebration of the International Youth Day, 2010 under the global theme of Dialogue and Mutual Understanding. The day also marked the beginning of the International Youth Year (2010-2011).

In partnership with UNFPA, the Ministry of youth and Y-Peer Sudan marked the day by several activities. In addition to the youth forum, the two-day event included university group discussions, mobile cinema, exhibits, distribution of advocacy material and an evening official ceremony followed by entertainment segments. 

On the first day, at Juba, Ahfad, Ahlia and Nilain university campuses, a group of youth volunteers facilitated a number of group discussions on how understanding diversity and dialogue could contribute to peace and unity in Sudan. The Youth Forum took place in the morning of the second day where more than 60 young women and men from different organizations and backgrounds participated in the lively discussions about the upcoming referendum on the separation of South Sudan and how the outcome will affect youth. Recommendations were submitted to the Minister in the evening event.

 "We value the partnership with UNFPA and other local organizations that enable us to highlight youth issues and effectively address them," said Minister of Youth and Sports when addressing the official ceremony. He added that the Ministry is committed to addressing youth issues and to implementing youth development national strategies.

 Mr. Hans de Graaff, UNFPA Representative in Sudan addressed the youth noting that the vibrant activities that took place in commemoration of the International Youth Day proves that "young women and men like you do not only represent the future, but they are also the leaders of change today." He added that in Sudan, more and more youth are aware of their needs and take part in discussing their issues and making their voice heard.

 Hundreds of young women and men attended the mobile cinema shows that focused on HIV/AIDS and youth reproductive health. Another youth forum also took place at Nadi Alusra in the evening where 24 young women and men representing youth NGOs discussed the topics of unemployment, gender-based violence, drug abuse and child rights. With the help of facilitators, youth agreed on action plan to work on these four issues during the International Youth Year.