The Universal National Service (SNU) has been a reality for young French volunteers aged 15 to 17 for the past two years. As discussions about its generalization arise, a closer look at the experiences of these young participants reveals their motivations and the impact of the program.
Every morning, the 170 SNU volunteers gather for a ritual that includes raising the flag and singing the French national anthem, La Marseillaise, together. Emma, a 16-year-old participant from Vaucluse, expresses her awe at singing the anthem for the first time, describing it as an incredible experience.
The Secretary of State for Youth announced on June 15, 2023, a plan to encourage more young people to participate in the SNU. The proposal suggests that the eleven-day program could be integrated into school time, making it more accessible for students. This initiative aims to further promote the benefits of the SNU and increase its reach.
While the sense of cohesion is a significant factor that attracts many teenagers to enroll in the SNU, the program also offers valuable learning opportunities. Over the course of eleven days, participants receive training in various areas such as health, school orientation, and first aid. Jules, a 16-year-old volunteer, highlights the practicality of these skills, emphasizing their potential to help others in emergency situations.
In addition to practical training, the SNU also encourages participants to reflect on topics related to citizenship. This aspect of the program aims to reinforce the value of education and its immediate applicability in real-life situations. Lisa Vandenhelsken, an SNU animator, sees this as an exercise in cohesion, where everyone’s knowledge is enhanced, and the importance of collective learning is emphasized.
However, as the generalization of the SNU is discussed, concerns have been raised by professionals. Daniel Jaunin, the SNU referent in the Gard region, expresses worries about the program potentially transforming into an educational center for young people facing difficulties. These concerns highlight the need for careful consideration and planning to ensure the SNU remains focused on its original objectives.
Despite these concerns, the SNU continues to attract young participants. Last year, 40,000 teenagers took part in the Universal National Service course, indicating its popularity and relevance among the youth.
As the discussions about the generalization of the SNU continue, it is essential to strike a balance between expanding its reach and preserving its core values. The experiences of these young volunteers demonstrate the positive impact of the program, both in terms of personal growth and the development of a sense of national unity.
How can the French government effectively increase the number of youth volunteers participating in the SNU program?
O increase the number of youth volunteers and provide them with the opportunity to engage in meaningful community service.
The SNU, which was launched in 2021, is a voluntary program that allows young French citizens aged 15 to 17 to participate in various community projects. These projects can range from helping the elderly to environmental conservation efforts. The program has been praised for instilling a sense of civic duty and promoting social cohesion among young people.
In interviews with several SNU participants, it became evident that their motivations for joining the program were diverse. Some were driven by a desire to give back to their communities and make a positive impact. Others saw it as an opportunity for personal growth and development. Many expressed a sense of pride in being able to represent their country and contribute to the well-being of their fellow citizens.
The SNU experience also had a profound impact on the participants. Emma, for instance, described feeling a sense of fulfillment and empowerment through her involvement in community service. She highlighted the importance of being able to make a difference, no matter how small, and how it has shaped her perspective on societal issues.
With discussions about the generalization of the SNU program, the French government aims to build on its success and further integrate it into the education system. The proposal to incorporate the eleven-day program into school time would make it more accessible for students, allowing a wider pool of young people to participate. This move aims to cultivate a sense of national identity and community engagement from an early age.
The SNU program serves as a stepping stone for young people to become active citizens and develop skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. By involving more young people in community service, it has the potential to create a more inclusive and cohesive society, where individuals are aware of their rights and responsibilities as citizens.
As the discussions surrounding the SNU’s generalization continue, it is important to keep in mind the experiences and perspectives of the young participants. Their motivations and the impact of the program provide valuable insights that can guide the future implementation and development of similar initiatives. The SNU has the potential to shape a generation of engaged and responsible citizens, contributing to the welfare and progress of the French society as a whole.
