As part of its annual programmes, the Young People in the Media (YPM), celebrated the past International Children’s Day of Broadcasting (ICDB) in a form of Radio talk show dubbed ‘Kids talent show’ hosted at Unique FM radio station in Fajara.

The show, which brought together children and young people as well as parents and stakeholders, was aimed at sharing and showcasing talents in education and entertainment. The day was also characterised by panel discussion on the importance of education, quiz and a debate on children’s issues.

Speaking to the Daily Observer, Adama Lee Bah, the president of YPM, stated that children and young people take airwaves to discuss their issues especially in various schools. She said that YPM is committed to helping children and young people to improve their dreams and hopes while discussing issues affecting them and to show love and affection for children in need.

Bah added that one of their key topics discussed is, ‘How do parents explore their children’s talent’, whose underlying message is that: “Parents should explore their children’s talents”. She added that the ICDB is the day when children are given the opportunity to share their talent and take charge of the airwaves, noting that the occasion is celebrated each year. She commended Trust Bank Gambia Limited, Unique FM and UNICEF for their unflinching support to the cause of children and young people.

For his part, Abdou Jatta, UNICEF Speak Africa Youth spokesperson for The Gambia, who is also the former president of the YPM, said that this is a good initiative for young people to showcase their talent with their active participation in the media. “The right to participation is a fundamental principle in the UN Convention of the rights of the Child and African Charter on the rights and welfare of the child which The Gambia is a state party,” he said.

Jatta noted that over the years they have seen active participation of children and young people in The Gambia, adding that Speak Africa and UNICEF will continue to partner with young people to realise their dreams and further exploit their talents so as to enable them better participate and contribute meaningfully towards their development and the continent as a whole.

Fanta Sidibeh, youth coordinator of YPM, explained that the forum was organised to bring together young people to meet and discuss issues affecting them. “Young people play active role in the media,” she said.

She further explained that their aim is to create awareness and advocacy on issues affecting young people and children through the mass media inconformity with the UN Convention on the rights of the Child and the African Charter on the rights and welfare of the child.