An organisation, Boys to Men, has emphasised the crucial need to empower both girls and boys in order to build an equitable world.
Founder and coordinator Edison Uapingene made the remarks during a one-day seminar held at Okakarara in Otjozondjupa Region over the weekend.
According to Uapingene, an inclusive approach is needed to break gender stereotypes and support both girls and boys in reaching their full potential.
“A guided, supported and empowered boy grows into a responsible man who contributes positively to his family, the community and country. When we neglect our boys, we risk creating conditions that lead to violence, substance abuse, crime and social instability. This seminar will encourage our young men to embrace education, discipline, respect, responsibility, faith and purpose.”
Uapingene challenged over 80 boys and men in attendance to talk openly about the challenges they are facing and take advice to better their lives after the seminar.
Okakarara constituency councillor Bethuel Tjazerua called on the boys not only to embrace education but also develop a positive character.
“Too many societies, people speak about the problems facing boys without speaking enough about the solutions. Today we are here to talk about solutions. The future of Namibia depends heavily on the quality of men we are raising today. A nation cannot prosper when its young men are lost; a nation cannot develop when its future leaders, teachers, entrepreneurs and professionals abandon their purpose.”
Okakarara mayor Siegfried Tjehiua called for open communication.
“We must talk to our boys, guide them, and help improve their way of life so that we can have mature men in the future—within our communities and across Namibia. Men with responsibility, integrity, and direction; men who conduct themselves well and carry themselves with dignity in both their behaviour and appearance so that they can become respected members of our society and country.”
The seminar also included talks about parental sacrifices, peer pressure, mental health and manhood.