Booth Id:
BEHA016T
Category:
Behavioral and Social Sciences
Year:
2024
Finalist Names:
Al Suwaidi, Shamma (School: Dubai National School - Al Barsha)
Alkahaleh, Mira (School: Dubai National School - Al Barsha)
AlMansoori, Maitha (School: Dubai National School - Al Barsha)
Abstract:
Globally, 1.2 billion young people aged 15 to 24 account for 16% of the world's population. The United Nations defines youth engagement as the active involvement of young people in decisions about their personal, family, social, economic, and political development. Historically, youth have been catalysts for social change, challenging norms and driving progress.
Despite this, the MENA region faces a noticeable lack of youth engagement, with 70% disengaged, and globally, over 61.6% of youth not involved in societal activities. A survey by the Arab Youth Center reveals that only 17% of MENA youth are concerned about personal development, with a mere 10% engaging in public participation. Recognizing this concern, the United Nations and various organizations highlight the insufficient participation of young citizens in local public life.
To address this, this research proposes an applied deductive research approach, systematically testing hypotheses derived from existing theories of psychologists and literature. It connects three stakeholders, which are (youth, parents, and the school community) with one shared vision "empowering youth and unleashing potential."
Two surveys will be conducted targeting youth aged 11 to 17 from diverse nationalities, backgrounds, and genders to unveil the evident lack of willingness and abilities among the participants. In the initial phase, students demonstrating a deficiency in both willingness and abilities will be selected as the sample group. Subsequently, various qualitative methodologies such as experiments, focus groups, events, and observations will be employed in collaboration with parents and the school community to enhance the abilities and willingness of the selected students.