Nam youth have integrity: study

WINDHOEK – The results of a Youth Integrity Survey has shown that the majority of young people in Namibia exhibit a sense of integrity and an understanding of ethical standards.

The study was carried out by the National Institute for Democracy (NID) and was released on International Anti-Corruption Day (December 9).A media statement issued by NID executive director Theunis Keulder said the survey was part of the NID’s Zero Tolerance for Corruption Campaign and was conducted between June and October 2010.The study that was conducted in eight regions in Namibia examined existing values and attitudes towards integrity and corruption exhibited by young people.Keulder said the results demonstrate that the overwhelming majority of young people in Namibia exhibit a sense of integrity and an understanding of ethical standards.’The results of the study also showed that, a minority of Namibian youth tolerate corrupt activities and lack ethical attitudes,’ said KeulderHe said the fact that around 40 per cent of respondents have never discussed corruption at school and that more than 30 per cent have never heard about corruption from other information sources suggests an urgent need for integrity-related education that specifically targets the Namibian youth.’ Based on the current results, consideration might also be given to the recommendation that in addition to integrity-related radio programmes and newspaper features targeting the youth, online e-learning education materials on anti-corruption measures be utilised,’ Keulder said.He said another option could be awarding annual prizes to outstanding teachers and pupils who demonstrate exceptional integrity to help motivate everyone to have integrity and stop participating in corrupt activities.- Nampa