An Image of Stephen and civil engineering students from NASPW in Yaoundé, Cameroon

During a recent engagement at the National Advanced School of Public Works (NASPW) in Yaoundé, Cameroon, I had the distinct pleasure of meeting a group of promising civil engineering students. Over the past three months, I have come to know them as a cohort of bright and dedicated individuals poised to make a significant impact on their nation's future. Their enthusiasm for creating safer communities was palpable, and their journey offers a powerful example of how we can cultivate the next generation of road safety leaders.

What struck me most was their profound engagement with the multifaceted nature of road safety. I was particularly impressed by their keen interest in understanding that road safety extends far beyond the immediate aftermath of a crash. They were captivated by the intricate connections between road safety and the broader global sustainability agenda, recognizing that safer roads contribute to healthier, more equitable, and environmentally sound societies. Their curiosity was evident in the thoughtful questions they posed, eager to learn how individuals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds could contribute to this critical field.

One interaction, in particular, highlighted the creative potential of this group. A student with a passion for music was amazed to learn that he could leverage his artistic talents to champion road safety awareness. This moment underscored a key principle of our outreach: that every skill and passion can be harnessed to save lives. It was a revelation for many that their unique abilities, whether in engineering, communications, or the arts, have a place in this global movement.

For many of these students, this was their first in-person experience with a dedicated road safety initiative, a milestone that I was honored to share with them. The freshness of their perspective was invigorating. They represent a new wave of advocates, unburdened by preconceived notions and driven by a genuine desire for change, especially in Cameroon road safety context.

Looking ahead, I am deeply inspired by the commitment of this emerging group of Coalition members. They are not only eager to improve road safety in Cameroon but are also keen to contribute to the global dialogue. Most notably, a significant number of them—between ten and fifteen—have decided to focus their master's theses on road safety. This academic undertaking will generate a wealth of localized knowledge, creating a robust evidence base to catalyze targeted and effective road safety interventions across the country. Their dedication is a testament to the power of education and mentorship in building a safer, more sustainable future for all.

Written by Stephen Kome, a member of the Global Youth Coalition

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