The Women and Youth Leadership Program, launched by UNDP and the Office of the Vice President in Juba, aims to address youth unemployment through skills development for young South Sudanese professionals. The program focuses on empowering young men and women aged 18 to 35, especially women, through a structured internship initiative, emphasizing fair recruitment and gender inclusivity.
On February 12, 2025, in Juba, South Sudan, UNDP and the Office of the Vice President (Gender & Youth Cluster) introduced the Women and Youth Leadership Program. This initiative aims to reduce youth unemployment by equipping young South Sudanese professionals with essential employability and leadership skills, targeting educated youth aged 18 to 35 years, with emphasis on gender inclusivity.
Recognizing that youth constitute 72% of South Sudan’s population, the program seeks to break down employment barriers, particularly for young women. Many face challenges such as limited professional networks, insufficient career guidance, and societal biases. By providing six-month internships with various organizations, such as government agencies and NGOs, the program aims to enhance professional experience and leadership capabilities.
The recruitment process prioritized fairness and diversity, facilitated by a multi-sectoral committee overseeing a nationwide call for applications. Shortlisted candidates underwent a written test on leadership and problem-solving, followed by oral interviews. The program successfully selected 200 participants, with a commitment to maintaining gender and regional balance; 60% of them being women, including individuals with disabilities.
The program is structured around five core phases, ensuring comprehensive professional development: Recruitment and Selection, Orientation and Career Guidance, Training and Capacity Building, Internship and Job Placement, and Mentoring, Coaching, and Career Support. This structure fosters long-term growth through mentorship, skill-building, and networking opportunities for future leaders.
Steered by a committee led by the Office of the Vice President, the program features a robust curriculum encompassing various training modules. These include leadership development, gender inclusion, financial literacy, and digital skills, equipping participants for diverse professional roles. The program is a significant move toward empowering South Sudan’s youth and promoting inclusive development in the country.
Athieng Susan Yol, a participant, remarked, “Young girls are made to believe at a tender age, a prince charming is coming to marry them… this program gives young women an opportunity to prove ourselves, be great leaders in the future and overcome biases.” Dr. Mohamed Abchir from UNDP added, “We are committed to empowering youth and women… while maintaining accountability and upholding transparency.”
H.E. Rebecca Nyandeng Mabior emphasized the strong demand for such opportunities, stating, “The response to this program has been overwhelming… This tells us something important—people want to come home. They want to contribute. They are desperate for experience, for employment, for a chance.”
The Women and Youth Leadership Program launched by UNDP and the Office of the Vice President is a vital initiative targeting youth unemployment in South Sudan. By focusing on professional development and leadership skills, particularly for women, the program aims to create pathways for young individuals to contribute significantly to the nation’s growth and empowerment. With its structured phases and inclusive approach, the program addresses existing barriers while promoting a brighter future for South Sudan’s youth.
Original Source: www.undp.org
