We need to confront the reality that rural youths aren’t offered the same chances are youths growing in urban settings.
Youth advocate and human rights activist Avenai Serutabua said this in a statement last week, noting that the gap between urban and rural youths continued to widen.
“It’s easy to talk about giving everyone the same opportunities, that’s equality,” Serutabua said.
“But sometimes equality isn’t enough because not everyone starts from the same place or has the same access.
“That’s where equity comes in, making sure everyone gets a fair shot based on their needs.”
He noted that rural youths often lack access to resources, support and opportunities simply because of their location.
“Most of the time we like to believe rural and urban youths are offered the same chances, but that’s not always the reality.
“Rural youths often miss out on resources, support and opportunities just because they’re from a village or settlement.
“It’s about more than just giving them the same; we need to go the extra mile to bring these opportunities closer to them, so they aren’t left behind.”
Mr Serutabua explained that providing the same opportunities to all youths is not enough, because rural youths often start from a disadvantage.
He said that efforts should focus on bringing resources and opportunities closer to them to ensure they are not left behind.
“I really hope we see more efforts to bring programs, jobs, education and support right into those rural areas especially those (who) really live afar from Nadogotuki in Savusavu, Nakida in Naitasiri and Namoli in Navosa.
“We’ve got the power to make that change, and I truly believe that creating those chances will change lives and build stronger communities for everyone, regardless.”
