DAR ES SALAAM: YESTERDAY President Samia Suluhu Hassan was quoted urging parents and community leaders to a more active role in in guiding and mentoring young people.
Speaking after arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), the Head of State underscored the importance of offering support and direction to help them navigate challenges and make positive life choices.
It is high time for parents and community leaders to heed President Samia’s call so that children and young people are raised well, make right choices in life and lead life prosperously.
Parents providing guidance and mentoring is crucial because it fosters emotional and social development, builds confidence and improves behaviour and decision-making skills in young people. This consistent, foundational support from parents reinforces positive outcomes, helps young people navigate challenges and creates a strong base for future success in school and life.
As President Samia said many of the youths who took part in the recent General Election unrest were influenced by crowd behaviour rather than personal intent. Large numbers of youths followed the momentum of the group, so now families should counsel their children and help reinforce calmness in their communities.
If parents do that, the community will witness important positive outcomes from the youth.
There will be improved behaviour and social skills: Involved parents promote self-control and proper behaviour, leading to fewer problems at home and school. Children will develop stronger communication and social skills by spending quality time with a caring adult.
Increased confidence and self-esteem: Guidance from parents helps young people gain a more accurate and positive perspective of their abilities, boosting their self-assurance in various situations.
Reduced risky behaviour: Youth with positive adult role models are less likely to engage in substance abuse or other risky behaviours. Mentoring helps them develop resilience and problemsolving skills to handle adversity.
Better academic and life success: Parental involvement is linked to higher engagement, better social functioning and fewer absences in school. Guidance helps young people stay focused on their studies and develop key skills for future success.
The importance of the parental role is that it is a foundation for mentoring: Parental support is a key factor in the success of external mentoring programmes. When parents are involved, young people remain more consistent, feel safer and get more out of the experience.
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Building stronger relationships: The partnership between a child, their parent and a mentor is vital. Parental involvement strengthens the trust and emotional connection in any mentoring relationship.
Supporting growth: Parents provide the crucial foundation that allows for growth. Their involvement helps ensure that the guidance a young person receives is most effective.