The 20th May Boulevard in Yaoundé was a sea of vibrant colors and youthful energy on February 11, 2025, as pupils, students, and teachers gathered to commemorate the 59th edition of National Youth Day. This year’s celebration was held under the theme: “Youth, Maturity, and Responsibility for the Consolidation of Peace, Security, Economic Growth, and the Democratic Process.”
More than ten thousand youths, proudly dressed in their school uniforms, marched past the honorary tribune of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic Education, where they were warmly received by state dignitaries and education officials. Their synchronized steps and enthusiastic chants of unity highlighted their commitment to national values. At the end of the march-past, the Minister of Youth Affairs and Civic Education, Mounouna Foutsou, applauded the remarkable display by the youth, particularly those recognized as the best marchers from the previous edition. He noted that their choreographic movements were not only innovative but also demonstrated the immense talent of Cameroonian youth.
“As you have seen, the Cameroonian youth, particularly those who were selected last year as the best march passers, deployed themselves here at the 20th May Boulevard through choreographic movements which were very wonderful and innovative, showing that Cameroonian youth is very talented and probably boosted by the message of the Head of State yesterday,” the minister remarked. He further emphasized that the messages carried by the youth throughout the march reflect their civic engagement and commitment to national development. Encouraging them to remain guided by the words of the Head of State, he stated: “So what we will do now is to continue to accomplish this.
We will accompany them, and the youth themselves should meditate on the message of the Head of State and be guided by the theme of this celebration, which is maturity and responsibility for the consolidation of peace, security, economic growth, and the democratic process.” Singing patriotic songs and waving the national flag, the young marchers showcased their dedication to peace, social cohesion, and the progress of Cameroon as “one and indivisible nation.” Teachers and civic educators also played a vital role in shaping the day’s activities, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and engagement in nation-building.
