ZANZIBAR, Aug. 19 -- FOR one week, Zanzibars young people turned International Youth Day into more than a celebration. They used the occasion to learn, debate, innovate, explore opportunities and confront some of the challenges shaping their future.

From Artificial Intelligence (AI) and entrepreneurship to mental health, reproductive health, road safety and sports tourism, the activities leading up to August 12 offered a glimpse of a generation seeking not only jobs, but the skills and confidence to create opportunities for itself and contribute to Zanzibars development.

The programme reflected the global theme for International Youth Day 2026, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.” The United Nations says that although y...