All is set for youths in the capital, Lilongwe to commemorate this year`s International Youth Day (IYD) which will see the youths being celebrated as agents of change.

The country is expected to commemorate the day on 12 August in Neno district. However, young people in the City will observe the day on August 11, at the Bingu National Stadium where different activities have been lined up to spice up the day.

In an interview with YFM, one of the organisers of the event, Rodgers Siula said the day will enable the youth to speak out on the importance of seeing themselves being involved in all levels of decision making and ensuring that right choices are made.

“There are a wide range of issues, we talking about drug use, alcohol use, education, social things, responsibilities; it’s all about choices that young people make,” said Siula.

According to Siula, apart from music performances by Fredokiss and Suffix, young people will have an opportunity to listen to motivational speeches and lectures.

All primary school learners will be allowed to enter through the gates of the stadium freely as long as they put on their respective school uniforms, and the rest will pay K500 as a gate fee.

12 August was designated as IYD by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999, and it is observed annually on 12 August since 2000. The specified day gives an opportunity to raise awareness of the challenges and hardships facing the world’s youth.

According to the UN, young people are powerful agents of change and progress when they are educated and empowered to participate in decision-making. Yet around the world, too many youths are being left behind.

The theme for this year’s commemoration is: “Safe Space for Youth”.