In line with the UN Youth2030 strategy, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) South Africa is committed to partnering with young people as equal stakeholders in shaping the policies and programmes that affect them. With youth making up over 30% of South Africa’s population, it’s more important than ever to ensure that their voices are heard, and acted upon.

To centre youth perspectives in its work, UNFPA established the Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) in 2013. The panel brings together young representatives from across the country, including priority districts like Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape, to co-create youth-responsive interventions and drive the organization’s broader development agenda.

As part of a wider review of the 2021–2025 YAP Programme, UNFPA collaborated with UNICEF to launch a national U-Report youth poll in June 2025 to gather input directly from young people. U-Report is UNICEF’s digital community for young people, by young people, where they can raise their voices and share opinions on topics that matter to them. Using real-time insights and solutions, U-Report shapes policies and decisions in communities, countries and around the world.

🔹 Top priorities?
Youth said platforms should invest in training and leadership development (30%), promote inclusivity of diverse youth (27%), and ensure support from institutions (21%).

🔹 Best ways to be heard?
The majority called for inclusion of youth recommendations in formal reports (33%), mentorship by senior leaders (32%), and regular engagement sessions (29%).

🔹 Purpose of youth platforms?
Nearly half (48%) felt these platforms should promote learning and mentorship, followed by strengthening advocacy and influencing policy.

These results will directly inform a refreshed Youth Engagement Strategy under UNFPA’s upcoming sixth Country Programme. By listening closely and acting boldly, UNFPA aims to move beyond representation, toward real partnership with South Africa’s youth.

Let us know what you think in the poll and comments section below.