A role of young people in development is therefore both a right and an imperative. What does the youth work profession have to say about realising that right and that imperative? These are more than theoretical issues. They go to the heart of articulating the niche of youth work and realising the value of investments in it.
- Too often, (the youth education) debate has been dominated by those who are already qualified and well-established in their chosen field, rather than the new generation of workers who have the right to influence future developments....
- Clearly, there is a debate to be had about how best to equip people with their skills, knowledge, recognition and status to acquire the necessary professional expertise and continue to be rooted in their own communities. However, it is also very important to consider how these people can be given transferable skills and knowledge, recognition and accreditation so that they have the freedom and ability to practice in other areas or countries.
- Martin Notley for CYP: 1997
