Youth and Digital Technology Take Center Stage in Indonesia

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The United Nations and United Nations Association Indonesia (UNA Indonesia) today, August 10, celebrated International Youth Day with a focus on the role of digital technology in building a sustainable future. Under the theme "Empowering Indonesian Youth: Digital Pathways to a Sustainable Future," they emphasized the importance of harnessing digital innovation for the benefit of young people, especially those in rural areas.

"Our future, the future of the nation, is in the hands of the youth," said Usman Kasong, Director General for Information and Communication at the Ministry of Communication and Information in a press release received by Tempo on Saturday, August 10. He highlighted the potential of digital technology to drive transformation and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Indonesia, with its young population, is well-positioned to leverage digital development solutions. The government has made progress towards achieving the SDGs, but challenges remain. Engaging youth in digital initiatives is seen as critical to bridging the digital divide and ensuring inclusive development.

A series of workshops and a conference brought together government officials, UN representatives, and experts to discuss how digital strategies can address issues such as food security, education, employment, and healthcare. The Digital Transformation Multi-Stakeholder Partnership, a coalition of twelve UN entities, was highlighted as a key initiative in this area.

"By providing young people with the right digital tools, they can actively contribute to building an inclusive future," said Quentino Adzandra Junandar, Under-Secretary-General DPD UNA Indonesia.

The event highlighted the importance of youth participation in shaping the future. UN Resident Coordinator Gita Sabhwarwal emphasized the need for young people's ideas and participation in driving digital solutions to global challenges.

Today's discussion is in line with the UN Secretary-General's vision for a future in which youth perspectives are integrated into governance and digital technologies are widely used for development. The upcoming Future Summit in New York will further explore these themes.

Tempo.co

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