Today’s Youth Empowerment Roundup
Global stories aligned with the BEFOCUS Children & Youth Foundation and Witty Global vision — spotlighting activism, sport, entrepreneurship, and education.
Gen Z in Morocco Demand Education, Jobs & Accountability
What’s happening: Youth-led demonstrations across Casablanca, Tangier, Marrakesh and Rabat are calling for better education, healthcare, jobs and accountable governance — questioning big-ticket stadium spending while essential services struggle.
Why it matters for children & youth
- Shows young people as active agents shaping public priorities.
- Focuses the global conversation on equitable access to quality education and work opportunities.
- Resonates with Africa-wide demographics where youth voice and inclusion are pivotal.
Source: AP News — Morocco’s Gen Z protesters demand accountability and education reform.
Global Platform for U16 Talent: The First “Messi Cup” in Miami
What’s happening: The inaugural Messi Cup (Dec 9–14, 2025, Miami) will gather elite youth academies — including FC Barcelona — giving teenagers a high-visibility stage to compete, learn, and network internationally.
Why it matters
- Sport builds discipline, teamwork, resilience and global exposure.
- Creates pathways for scholarships, scouting and cross-cultural learning.
- Inspires local academies across Africa to elevate standards and opportunities.
Source: BarçaBlaugranes — FC Barcelona youth team set to shine at first ‘Messi Cup’ in Miami.
UAE Drive to Train 10,000 Youth & Create 30,000 Jobs by 2030
What’s happening: A new campaign led by Dubai’s leadership aims to upskill young people through a digital platform (StartupEmirates.ae), pairing training and mentorship with pathways to employment and startup funding.
Why it matters
- Signals large-scale commitment to youth employability and startup ecosystems.
- Provides a blueprint African actors can adapt: blended learning, mentors, co-working, seed funding.
- Aligns with BEFOCUS & Witty Global’s vision: turning ideas into value and jobs.
Source: Times of India — UAE: Dubai ruler launches campaign to train 10,000 youth and create 30,000 jobs.
“The Loss of Education Is the Loss of the Future”: Gaza’s Children Two Years Without School
What’s happening: A detailed report captures the long-term harm facing children and teachers after prolonged school closures — from trauma to learning loss — and the urgent need for safe, consistent access to education.
Why it matters
- Education is a fundamental right — its disruption narrows life chances for a generation.
- Highlights the global duty to protect children, not only empower them.
- Underscores the importance of psychosocial support alongside academic recovery.
Source: The Guardian — ‘The loss of education is the loss of the future itself’.
Join the Conversation & Build the Future
Which story moved you most — activism, sport, entrepreneurship or education? Tell us why, and what action you’ll take this week. Then explore our programmes and resources to turn passion into impact.
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