Youth are the promise of tomorrow, but youth policy is the plan that turns that promise into reality. Public policy does more than outline intentions; it defines how a nation chooses to invest in its people. Among all policies, those concerning youth hold unique significance because they determine how young citizens are supported, empowered and prepared to contribute to national development. Recognizing this responsibility, Global Peace Chain Cameroon actively participated in the “Revision of the National Youth Policy in Cameroon” conference, reaffirming the importance of youth-centered governance.
Organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic Education (MINJEC-SWR), the conference was held on Thursday, 5th February 2026, at the Regional Delegation of Youth Affairs and Civic Education, South-West Region, from 10:00am to 3:30pm. The event convened institutional stakeholders, civil society organizations and youth leaders to contribute to a collaborative dialogue that will influence the future direction of youth engagement and opportunity across Cameroon.
Led by Country Director Hon. Sam Sukpa, the Global Peace Chain Cameroon team attended the conference as an active participant in discussions that directly affect young people nationwide.
At the heart of the conference was a shared understanding that youth policy is closely connected to national growth and social cohesion. By creating structures that improve access to opportunities, civic participation and social services, a responsive youth policy becomes a foundation for sustainable development.
Participants emphasized that revising the National Youth Policy is not merely a procedural task but a strategic step toward ensuring that policies reflect the real challenges, needs and aspirations of Cameroon’s youth. The discussions highlighted how effective policy frameworks can better connect young people to the systems designed to support them.
The strength of the conference lay in the diversity of representation from key governmental and civic bodies, including:
Each delegation shared insights into the opportunities available within their sectors and explained how these services could be better aligned with the revised youth policy to ensure greater accessibility and awareness for young people.
This multisectoral engagement ensured that youth policy was discussed from social, economic and civic perspectives rather than in isolation.
These discussions were centered on practical outcomes, particularly how youth can access employment pathways, public services and development opportunities with greater clarity and ease.
The panels transformed the policy revision process into a solution-oriented dialogue, focused on enhancing real opportunities for youth.
A key highlight of the conference was the interactive question-and-answer sessions, which allowed young participants to directly engage with institutional representatives. Youth attendees sought clarity regarding access to programs, employment opportunities and participation in civic processes.
The dialogue that followed provided valuable understanding and ensured that youth concerns were acknowledged within the policy discussion. This interaction strengthened the sense of inclusion and emphasized that youth perspectives are essential in shaping effective policy.
The participation of Global Peace Chain Cameroon, under the leadership of Hon. Sam Sukpa, reflected the organization’s commitment to youth empowerment and civic engagement. GPC Ambassadors actively attended the sessions, engaged with stakeholders, and represented youth interests within an institutional platform.
By being present at this important conference, Global Peace Chain Cameroon reinforced its role as a bridge between youth communities and policy-making institutions, advocating for inclusive frameworks that support peace and development.
The conference demonstrated that youth development requires coordinated efforts across multiple sectors. The involvement of labor, public service, economic planning and youth affairs highlighted the interconnected nature of the challenges and solutions related to youth empowerment.
This collaborative approach ensures that the revised youth policy reflects a holistic system designed to support young people across different aspects of their lives.
Global Peace Chain Cameroon extends sincere appreciation to the Regional Delegate of Youth Affairs for the invitation to participate in this significant conference. The recognition of youth-led organizations in such discussions reflects an inclusive approach toward governance.
The dedication shown by Country Director Hon. Sam Sukpa and GPC Ambassadors further demonstrates their ongoing commitment to representing youth voices in spaces where national decisions are shaped.
The “Revision of the National Youth Policy in Cameroon” conference was not simply a formal gathering; it was a meaningful step toward aligning national systems with the needs of young people.
Because youth are indeed the promise of tomorrow, but it is thoughtful, inclusive and responsive youth policy that turns that promise into reality. Through dialogue, collaboration and active participation, Cameroon has taken an important step toward strengthening the pathways that enable its youth to contribute to national progress.
