Times Of Swaziland: IS THE YOUTH IN TOUCH WITH CURRENT AFFAIRS? IS THE YOUTH IN TOUCH WITH CURRENT AFFAIRS? ================================================================================ Bandiswa Vilane on 19/02/2025 09:05:00 In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, staying in touch with current affairs has become more crucial than ever. From the political and economic shifts on a global scale to local social issues, the landscape in which we live evolves constantly. However, the youth, the generation that is often perceived as detached from traditional media or political engagement, is it really in touch with what’s going on in the world around them? And perhaps more importantly, why is it so crucial for them to remain engaged with current affairs and be proactive in shaping the future? Apart from groove, the rise in alcohol prices or the latest song release, is there youth engaging in meaningful discussions and aware of global issues and how they impact us? Exposed There’s no denying that the youth of today are exposed to an overwhelming amount of information every day. With the advent of social media, news platforms and the internet, access to current events has never been more accessible, at a more uncensored level as the face value information that has guided us for the longest time. Yet, the way young people engage with news is often fragmented and sometimes surface-level. While they might be aware of viral events or major headlines, they may not always delve into the deeper, more intricate details behind these stories. You will meet a young man or woman, pick their brain on global issues and it is just wind escaping them and they can barely articulate themselves or construct firm arguments. One of the key factors contributing to this is the rapid spread of information on social media platforms like Instagram, X, TikTok and YouTube. While these platforms offer a lot of convenience and allow for quick access to trending topics, they also tend to present a skewed or oversimplified view of complex issues – which is arguably good and bad. Many young people may consume news in bite-sized formats—memes, short videos or infographics—without fully understanding the nuances of the situation. This can lead to a shallow understanding of critical global issues, leaving them with just the headlines but not the necessary context or depth. Consumed Additionally, the distraction factor cannot be ignored. Many young people are often more consumed with the digital entertainment landscape, including gaming, online streaming and social media interactions. These activities take up a large portion of their time, leaving little opportunity for them to sit down and engage with traditional news outlets such as newspapers, TV programmes, or in-depth podcasts that discuss current affairs in a more comprehensive manner. Many young people are consumed by gossip mongering and trends to the extent of sidelining the importance of knowledge outside of this. However, this is not to say that all young people are disengaged. There are certainly many who are actively seeking to understand the world around them—whether through podcasts, alternative news sources, or engaging in conversations with others on social media. The key question remains: How can we bridge the gap and encourage more youth to be proactive in staying informed about the state of the world? More so when the future of the world is in the hands of the very same people? One of the most powerful reasons for young people to stay in touch with current affairs is empowerment. When individuals are informed about the events shaping the world, they are better equipped to understand their place within it. Knowledge is power and being aware of political, economic, environmental and social issues allows young people to make informed decisions about their own lives and future. Empowers Whether it’s supporting advocacy campaigns or choosing a career path that aligns with their values, staying informed empowers the youth to take control of their destiny. It is important to create a social climate of awareness, where young people are aware of their importance in the complex ladder of economic and political issues and how each person is invaluable to creating the change we demand to see. The youth has always played a pivotal role in driving change throughout history. From civil rights movements to environmental activism, young people have consistently been at the forefront of social progress and the history we are taught in school is evidence of this. The challenges facing today’s world are increasingly complex. Global issues such as climate change, economic inequality and international conflicts are not easily understood through headlines alone. Being proactive in learning more about these subjects allows young people to understand the multifaceted nature of these problems. This is crucial, as it helps prevent the spread of misinformation or oversimplified narratives. It also ensures that young people can participate in discussions that are grounded in facts, leading to more productive debates and solutions. Staying engaged with current affairs helps young people develop critical thinking skills, which are essential for navigating the modern world. In an era where misinformation, ‘fake news’ and biased reporting are widespread, it is essential for the youth to not only be aware of what is happening but to evaluate the sources of information they encounter. Developing the ability to analyse news critically—questioning its credibility, context and potential bias—builds an essential skill set that extends beyond the realm of current affairs and into every aspect of life.