Youth refers to the transitional phase between childhood and adulthood, characterized by significant

physical, psychological, and social changes. According to the United Nations, "youth" includes individuals
aged 15 to 24 years, although the specific age range can vary depending on the context and country. For
example in many African countries youth is defined as individuals between 15 and 35 years old,
recognizing the extended period of dependency and educational or employment challenges faced by
this group. According to national youth development 2007.

Needs refers to essential requirements that are necessary for an individual or group to achieve a certain
level of well-being, health, or functioning. Needs can be basic, such as food, water, and shelter, or more
complex, such as education, healthcare, and social belonging. For example, Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
categorizes human needs into five levels: physiological needs, safety needs, love and belonging needs,
esteem needs, and self-actualization needs. According to Maslow, A. H. (1943). A Theory of Human
Motivation. Psychological Review, 50(4), 370-396.

Special attention refers to focused and tailored efforts or resources directed towards individuals or
groups who require additional support due to specific challenges or circumstances. This can include
personalized care, targeted interventions, or dedicated services designed to address unique needs. For
example, children with learning disabilities may receive special attention through individualized
education programs (IEPs) to support their academic progress. According to U.S. Department of
Education. (n.d.). Individualized Education Program (IEP).

The National Development Policy of 2007 identifies several categories of youth who require special
attention to ensure inclusive and equitable development. These categories include young people who
face socio-economic challenges, those with disabilities, orphans, street children, and youth affected by
conflict. The policy underscores the importance of targeted interventions to address the unique needs
of these groups, promoting their integration into the broader societal framework and enhancing their
potential to contribute to national development. By recognizing these diverse categories, the policy aims
to create a supportive environment that fosters resilience and opportunity for all youth.

Youth with disabilities These are young individuals who face physical, sensory, or intellectual
challenges. They may need assistance and accommodations to access education, employment, and
social activities. For example, a teenager with a visual impairment might need braille textbooks and
accessible transportation to attend school. According to National Youth Development Policy of 2007

Youth in poverty This category includes young people who come from economically disadvantaged
backgrounds and struggle to meet their basic needs. They may require financial assistance, access to
education, and vocational training opportunities. For instance, a teenager from a low-income family
might need scholarships to continue their studies. According to National Youth Development Policy of
2007

Youth affected by substance abuse These are young individuals who struggle with addiction to drugs or
alcohol. They may require intervention programs, counseling, and rehabilitation services to overcome
their addiction and lead healthy lives. An example is a teenager addicted to opioids who needs access to
substance abuse treatment programs. According to National Youth Development Policy of 2007
Youth in conflict with the law This group comprises young people who have engaged in criminal
activities or are at risk of doing so. They may need guidance, mentorship, and alternative pathways to
prevent further involvement in illegal behavior. For example, a teenager arrested for vandalism might
benefit from community service and youth diversion programs. According to National Youth
Development Policy of 2007

Youth from indigenous communities These are young individuals who belong to indigenous or tribal
groups and may face cultural, social, and economic challenges. They may need support to preserve their
cultural identity, access education, and participate in decision-making processes. An example is a
teenager from a remote indigenous village who needs access to quality education in their native
language. According to National Youth Development Policy of 2007

Youth affected by HIV/AIDS This category includes young people who are living with HIV/AIDS or are
affected by it through family members. They may require access to HIV prevention education,
healthcare services, and psychosocial support. For instance, a teenager orphaned due to AIDS may need
assistance with housing, education, and emotional counseling. According to National Youth
Development Policy of 2007

Youth affected by armed conflicts These are young individuals who have experienced violence,
displacement, and trauma due to wars or armed conflicts. They may require humanitarian aid,
psychosocial support, and opportunities for peacebuilding and reconciliation. An example is a teenager
who has been internally displaced by a civil war and needs access to shelter, food, and education in a
safe environment. According to National Youth Development Policy of 2007

Youth from marginalized communities This group comprises young individuals who belong to minority
ethnic, religious, or social groups and face discrimination and exclusion. They may need support to
address systemic barriers and achieve equal opportunities in education, employment, and civic
participation. For example, a teenager from a marginalized ethnic minority might need advocacy and
empowerment programs to combat discrimination and promote social inclusion. According to National
Youth Development Policy of 2007

Youth affected by natural disasters These are young people who have been impacted by natural
calamities such as earthquakes, floods, or hurricanes. They may require emergency relief, shelter,
healthcare, and psychosocial support to recover and rebuild their lives. An example is a teenager whose
home was destroyed by a tsunami and needs access to temporary housing, clean water, and medical
care. According to National Youth Development Policy of 2007

Educationally disadvantaged youth This category includes young individuals who face barriers to
education, such as lack of access to quality schools, poverty, disabilities, or cultural norms. They may
need remedial education, scholarships, and mentorship programs to succeed academically. For instance,
a teenager from a rural area with limited educational resources might benefit from distance learning
initiatives and educational scholarships to pursue higher education opportunities. According to National
Youth Development Policy of 2007.
In conclusion, the National Development Policy of 2007 emphasizes the need to address the diverse
challenges faced by various categories of youth, including those from socio-economically disadvantaged
backgrounds, individuals with disabilities, orphans, street children, and youth impacted by conflict. By
identifying and focusing on these groups, the policy aims to foster an inclusive society where all young
people have the opportunity to thrive and contribute to national progress. This targeted approach is
essential for building a resilient and equitable future, ensuring that no youth is left behind.

Reference

National Youth Development Policy of 2007

United Nations, "youth"

Maslow, A. H. (1943). A Theory of Human Motivation. Psychological Review, 50(4), 370-396.