CHALLENGES FACING YOUTH IN CONTEMPORARY TIMES: CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS (AN ANALYTICAL STUDY IN THE LIGHT OF THE QUR'AN AND HADITH)

Abstract

Youth are the most asset of any nation, and no nation can afford to squander its treasures. Throughout history, every revolution be it political, economic, social, scientific, or moral has relied on the pivotal role of young individuals. Historical records testify that in every era and age, the contributions of youth have been indispensable to societal transformation.

Today, it is imperative to identify the challenges faced by young people and devise effective solutions to address them. However, it is with regret that we must acknowledge our failure to meet the needs of the younger generation adequately. Consequently, the issues affecting our youth are escalating, and this vital national asset, rather than contributing to the progress of the community and the nation, appears to be entangled in personal and social struggles.

On all fronts—education, training, economic opportunities, social integration, and mental well-being—our youth face significant hurdles. A substantial number of them are emigrating in search of better prospects abroad, while many others are engulfed by despair and disillusionment with life itself. This alarming situation calls for an earnest effort to understand the underlying problems and address them effectively.

It is essential to recognize the challenges of today’s youth, draw guidance from the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and formulate practical strategies to resolve these issues. This paper seeks to explore the major challenges facing the younger generation, analysed their root causes, and propose solutions based on the principles of the Qur'an and Sunnah, offering a framework for meaningful and lasting change.

Keywords; Youth, Challenges, Causes, Framework, Solutions, Qur'an and Sunnah