development to nation building and the creation of a democratic, productive and equitable society. At provincial and local levels, the National Youth Policy will ensure that government authorities work in a cooperative and harmonious manner when designing and delivering programmes and services that address youth development needs and opportunities. In addition, the Policy is intended to encourage an understanding amongst the youth of the processes of governance and provide opportunities for their participation in provincial and local programmes, thus enabling young women and men to play a positive role in national development. The National Youth Policy seeks to achieve the following goals: 1. To empower youth to participate and contribute to the socio-economic development of the nation, 2. To develop a coordinated response and participation by all stakeholders in the development and empowerment of the youth, 3. To instill in youth a clear sense of national identity and respect for national principles and values, and 4. To promote the health of young people and develop youth oriented healthcare. A number of strategies are outlined which comply with the multi-sectoral nature of the Youth Policy and relate to a range of programmes that should be implemented by a variety of institutions in order to achieve the stated policy goals and objectives. The strategies are grouped under twelve key strategic areas, namely: i) ii) iii) iv) v) vi) vii) viii) ix) x) xi) xii) Education and Skills Development Youth Employment and Sustainable Livelihoods Youth Empowerment and Participation Youth Migration Gender Equality and Equity Information, Communication and Technology Data and Research Youth Coordination and Mainstreaming Culture, Sport and Recreation National Youth Service Youth Health Youth and Environment 2