UNIVERSITY DRIVEN RESEARCH PROGRAMME (UDRP) YOUTH WELLBEING

Under the University Research Driven Program (UDRP), the research agenda on youth well-being is positioned as one of the university’s strategic thrusts, aimed at advancing youth well-being in a holistic, integrated, and evidence-based manner. The UDRP approach in this area encompasses educational, health, economic, social, cultural, political, policy, and digital technology dimensions, which collectively shape the life trajectories and quality of life of contemporary youth.

Within the educational dimension, research focuses on developing youth potential, adaptability, and the formation of well-balanced individuals, which serve as the foundation for young people’s ability to function effectively across various domains of life. This capacity is closely linked to their health and overall well-being. Therefore, from a health and well-being perspective, emphasis is placed on strengthening the physical, emotional, and social resilience of youth in the post-pandemic context, including addressing inequalities in access to well-being resources. In the economic dimension, research examines the realities of youth unemployment, employment instability, the gig economy, as well as the development of financial literacy and economic agency among young people.

Youth well-being is not confined solely to the individual dimension; rather, it is also shaped by social interactions and cultural contexts. Within the social and cultural dimensions, the UDRP focuses on identity formation, a sense of belonging, the strengthening of social capital, and the empowerment of youth-driven social innovation. The development of identity and a sense of social responsibility is also closely associated with the role of youth as citizens. In line with the implementation of Undi 18, the political and governance dimension emphasises the analysis of youth political participation, trust in institutions, civic engagement, and the emergence of new forms of governance innovation.

In this context, the role of youth also extends beyond national boundaries and requires an understanding of the broader policy landscape. Accordingly, at the policy and diplomacy levels, youth are positioned as active policy actors within both national and global frameworks. These processes are increasingly strengthened and accelerated by technological transformation. Within the technology and digital dimension, UDRP research focuses on digital well-being, the risks and potential of technology, as well as the development of digital citizenship and future-ready skills.

Overall, UDRP positions youth well-being as a high-impact research agenda that not only generates scientific knowledge but also translates research findings into policy formulation, programme design, and evidence-based interventions. This is intended to contribute to the development of a generation of young people who are well, resilient, and capable of leading the nation’s future development.

• AHLI PENYELIDIK

Updated:: 12/08/2026 [alyarahim]