** Kisantu, a step towards the future: the “Youth Ready” program and the reintegration of young people in the Kongo Central **
On May 29, 2025, the city of Inkisi, located in the province of Central Kongo in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), was the scene of an initiative carrying hope for around a hundred young idle people. The “Youth Ready” program, developed by the NGO World Vision, presents itself as a response to the burning problem of the socio -professional integration of young people, which, in many regions of the country, remain confronted with notable challenges, including unemployment and lack of opportunities.
** A need for reintegration pressing **
The situation of young people in Kongo Central is not unique. The Democratic Republic of Congo is plagued by deep socio-economic challenges, inherited from decades of conflicts, political instability and fragile governance. According to data from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), more than 70% of young Congolese people live in poverty, which complicates their access to basic resources, including education and vocational training. In this context, initiatives like “Youth Ready” become crucial to offer a constructive alternative.
** The “Youth Ready” program: a holistic approach **
According to Claude Nkoka, secretary general of the NGO Action for the protection of children and women, the “Youth Ready” program is based on an approach which aims to prepare young people both psychologically and professional. The awareness sessions planned for this new group of 100 young people aim to initiate solid bases in terms of interpersonal skills, interpersonal skills and essential virtues for successful integration in the professional environment. This type of preparation is vital to allow young people to become seriously and responsibility into their future work environment.
** The need for sustainable support **
Although the “Youth Ready” program marks an undeniable advance towards professional reintegration, several questions deserve to be explored. First of all, how to ensure the continuity and sustainability of support efforts beyond the initial training and awareness sessions? The implementation of partnerships with local businesses could be a promising route. By integrating young people into structures that recognize and value their skills, we can consider strengthening the regional socio-economic fabric.
In addition, it is essential that these programs do not remain isolated but are integrated into a wider community development strategy. This implies considering elements such as access to education, health, and food security, which are all interconnected with the opportunity of stable employment.
** A collective commitment for change **
Finally, it is precious to recall that sustainable change requires a collective commitment. This responsibility is not only incorporated by NGOs or institutional actors, but also to the community itself. Who are the voices that will get up to support these young people when they abandon the care of a program to enter the professional world? How to further involve the community in monitoring and evaluating the needs of these young people?
The “Youth Ready” program in Kisantu therefore represents much more than a simple training initiative. He embodies the hope of a better future for those who have often been left the economy of the economy. By wondering about how these young people can not only be prepared to enter working life, but also continuously supported, Kisantu could well set up as an effective reintegration model, illustrating the power of a collective commitment to build a lasting future.
In conclusion, the key to the success of such initiatives lies in a close collaboration between all the actors concerned, but also in a concerted vision which places youth at the center of societal concerns. This is a challenge that each community must take up to sow the seeds of a real and lasting change.