KUWAIT CITY, Aug 11: Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah has emphasized Kuwait’s strong commitment to supporting its youth, highlighting the country's focus on empowering them toward leadership, creativity, and excellence. Speaking to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Sunday ahead of International Youth Day, observed on Monday, Dr. Al-Huwailah noted that this dedication to youth development aligns with the continuous directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and the close monitoring of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah.

She elaborated that youth are vital to the sustainable development, progress, and advancement of nations. The Public Authority for Youth, responsible for supporting and developing young people, collaborates with various state institutions focused on youth work to ensure that all resources are utilized to meet the aspirations and needs of the youth. Meanwhile, the Public Authority for Sports oversees the athletic development of the nation's youth.

The Minister highlighted that the Youth Authority organizes numerous programs, projects, and activities throughout the year to equip young people with the skills and experiences necessary for professional success and securing suitable job opportunities. Among these initiatives is the annual Kuwait Award for Youth Excellence and Creativity, held under the patronage of His Highness the Amir, which recognizes significant contributions to community development in various fields.

Dr. Al-Huwailah also pointed out that youth centers across Kuwait’s six governorates offer programs that nurture talents and encourage creativity in science, technology, arts, media, volunteer work, and more. These centers also provide vocational training, sports activities, and summer programs to further enhance the abilities of young people.

She mentioned her directive to the Authority's officials to focus on modern scientific activities, particularly in artificial intelligence, technical services, software, and advanced technology, to keep pace with global scientific advancements. These areas are a central theme in this year’s United Nations celebrations of International Youth Day.

Additionally, Dr. Al-Huwailah highlighted the Kuwait Technical Complex for Entrepreneurship, a partnership between the Public Authority for Youth and Boeing Aviation Company, which provides young people with technical and technological knowledge. This initiative aligns with the country's efforts to strengthen the role of youth in sustainable development.

The Minister emphasized that these ongoing efforts to enhance youth work and highlight the role of youth in all aspects of life have led to the recognition of Kuwaiti youth in various international forums. She expressed deep appreciation for the support and interest provided by the country's political leadership in this regard.

In conclusion, Dr. Al-Huwailah praised the significant role of Kuwaiti youth in the success of the Authority's programs and projects, as well as their achievements on both local and international levels. She congratulated them on the occasion of International Youth Day, which she noted reaffirms the global community's recognition of the importance of youth in the development and progress of their nations.

International Youth Day, celebrated annually on August 12, was established by the United Nations in 1999. This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of developing young minds to harness technology in creating digital pathways for sustainable societal development.