Thank you for the opportunity to share my thoughts.
I went through the draft, all the elements mentioned are sensible. In my opinion, one dimension has been left out, which is the public perception of youth engaging in farming and agriculture.
Our society does not place enough importance in agriculture and farming, though these are the most essential and important professions. How many parents say with pride that their children are farmers, for instance?
Governments must consider using State media and social media to promote the image of young people engaging in farming and agriculture, show public support to them, share their success stories, and praise their contribution to the society. In this way, the public will understand better these professions and the importance of youth engagement. In addition to appropriate conditions provided by public authorities, the whole environment will become more encouraging. Young people engaged in farming and agriculture will increase their self-esteem, be proud of their profession in their entourage and become more motivated. This social recognition is crucial for youth engagement. Without it, youth will not invest and their engagement will not be durable.
I hope that a part of the document can provide suggestions on ways to promote social recognition. If one day parents can be proud of their children being farmers in the same way as they are proud nowadays of their children being lawyers or doctors etc., then we are getting on the right track to engage young people in farming and agriculture.
Thanks for your consideration.
Joy Muller