Building state talent through participation

Countries have a responsibility to ensure that their young populations, often highly talented and knowledgeable, can make a difference within their communities. Unfortunately, even though their contributions often help to bring about integral changes in the way of thinking and how their community functions, their achievements are often overlooked and they are also often ignored when it comes to the decision-making process.

Today, young people are more at risk of facing unemployment and discrimination, while many also do not have access to valuable education and healthcare. 

What can be done to encourage state participation? 

 

Youth-focused policies globally, and especially within Commonwealth countries, over the last four decades, have focused on helping young people have access to better education and health. Initiatives are focused on making the youth aware of issues such as climate change, human rights, the role that sport can play in development and peace and the importance of education.

Awareness encourages the exploration of solutions and an increased desire to participate in local, national and international governance and organizations. These organizations need to not only recruit talented people but also need to retain them since talented people are head-hunted by businesses too.

Besides offering attractive benefits packages, state participation can be increased by ensuring that employees have the opportunity to grow within their job while also making contributions that are deemed significant. 

Leadership development programs allow managers to see which state employees are capable and in which area allowing for succession planning, ensuring that there is always a talented pool of people for succession as others retire.

Besides the commitment to learn and grow their talent, state employees also need to be offered alternative work schedules, especially if they have young children or care for elderly parents, and to also be able to participate in development programs regarding their professional abilities.