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ZINASU statement on International Youth Day
Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) NTCC
August 11, 2011

Zimbabwe National Students' Union (ZINASU) joins other youths' formations and the world at large in commemorating the International Youths Day on Friday 12 August 2011. On 17 December 1999, in its resolution 54/120, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth (Lisbon, 8-12 August 1998) that 12 August be declared International Youth Day. In line with the theme for the International year, the theme for this year's International Youth Day is "Dialogue and Mutual Understanding". The choice of the theme reflects the General Assembly's appreciation of the value of dialogue among youth from different cultures as well as among different generations.

Dialogue and Mutual Understanding is the foundation of progress for any establishment. It can only be achieved and REAP the desired fruits if the citizens of the world are prepared to follow the REAP (Respect, Engagement, Action and Progress). Most people prefer dialogue and Mutual understanding as a means to end conflicts but we believe dialogue and mutual understanding should be a precursor to any programme of action so that conflicts can be avoided.

Respect for Dialogue and Mutual understanding to be achieved all human beings should be willing to respect fellow citizens regardless of political affiliation, socio-economic standing, colour, race, gender, nationality and any other characteristic that may vary from one being to another. If human beings can afford each other respect they can listen and learn from each other and eventually bridge any gaps that might exist between different groups of people and the world eventually becomes one peaceful family. In the Zimbabwean context if all Zimbabweans realize that there is no one who is more Zimbabwean than the other the political violence, gender and racial discrimination that has characterized our nation might become a thing of the past. We urge the youths of Zimbabwe especially ZANU PF youths in Mbare to respect other youths from other political formations and develop the culture of dialogue. It is our firm conviction that dialogue breeds brilliant ideas that can turn around the fortunes of our Republic. The energy and zeal of the youths should be channeled to national reconstruction other than hurting fellow citizens. The next Zimbabwean election should be a contest of ideas between rival politicians; physical contestation should be condemned by all.

Inter-generational respect is also critical as it paves way for the youths to be involved in key decision making. The old generation should realize that they don't have a monopoly over ideas and should take time to listen to the youngsters. The youth should not only be involved in implementation of programmes but in programming and policy formulation. The appointment of a youths Minister who is not a youths is a clear reflection of lack of respect of the youths of Zimbabwe and even crafting policies meant for youths empowerment without the input of the youths is a sign of contempt for the young people.

Engagement of ideas is the hallmark of civilization and if its broad based it becomes the genesis of popular participation in decision making. Policy makers should thrive to engage all citizens before critical decisions are made.

The exclusive nature of the negotiations that necessitated the consummation of the Inclusive government is the major reason why the arrangement is a monumental failure. If citizens were engaged we could have avoided some obvious pitfalls we are now falling into and the same citizens could have been fervently defending the creature which they assisted in creating. Intra Party decision making should also be characterized with broad based engagement and decision making should not be a preserve of neither the Politburo in ZANU PF nor the Standing Committee in the MDC.

Workers' Unions and Students' Unions are always at loggerheads with employers and policy makers because they are excluded from decision making. If Mudenge, (Minister of Higher Education) was willing to engage the students he could have scrapped the hostile cadetship scheme and replaced it with the loan and grant scheme. If employers could constantly engage with the workers they would understand why there is no money for salary increments.

Action guided by the ideas of the majority of a population will not face resistance from the populace and if effectively implemented it will definitely change the lives of people. Traditionally action has mainly been undertaken by the youths but with little or no returns for the youths themselves. The REAP process ensures that the labourer can enjoy his/her sweat. The ills that confront our nation today can effectively be acted upon if there is general consensus in decision making.

Progress is the yardstick to measure the success of the REAP process.

Through REAP we can successfully stop political violence, create jobs for the people, offer education for all who deserve it and even achieve the Millennium Development Goals by 2015. ZINASU urges the nation to go through REAP and build the foundation for cross cutting prosperity.

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