Youth in Nation-Building: A Qualitative Study on National and Local Participation in Socio-Political Issues among Students

Abstract

Youth participation in socio-political issues in this modern time is gradually rising, and the effects of it on nation-building are well observed, especially when it comes to change and progress. The main objectives of this study are to identify the instances where the students participate, to determine how students get involved, to understand the driving force of youth participating, to understand the experience/s of the students, and to determine possible causes why youth do not participate in national and local socio-political issues. Through the use of key informant interviews and focused group discussions, the researchers found that participants have engaged and participated in different socio-political issues on a national or local scale, such as civic engagement, volunteerism, policy-making, joining the labor sector, safeguarding and preserving national sovereignty, information drive to combat cultural discrimination and misinformation, and such. It was also discovered that a preference for social media and conventional methods were used by participants in their participation, depending on their target audience and the specific area where they would take part. Furthermore, it was unveiled that disinterest in youth, lack of encouragement coming from the community leaders, and lack of ways to empower youth due to lack of platforms are reasons youth do not participate in socio-political activities. Lastly, this study found that participants are eager to participate to obtain self-awareness and knowledge. And the support from the government and different institutions is needed in order to increase the awareness of the youth when it comes to socio-political issues.