BY LYNTON AARON FILIA
PRIME Minister Rick Houenipwela on Wednesday launched the National Youth Policy towards 2030, which is a shared vision for the future of young people.
The launching brought together leaders and representatives of young people at the Mendana hotel yesterday.
PM Hou said the policy sets a platform on which Solomon Islands can implement a change agenda and transform economic potential of youths into economic growth, peace and stability.
He said government recognises Solomon Islands youths as active citizens and nation-builders.
He said the 3-tier policy framework for youth development and empowerment is a roadmap that can assist them achieve in their development aspirations.
“All our youths have their God-given talents and skills to transform their own future,” Hou said.
Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, Freda Tuki, said the importance of the policy is it articulates values that will define character and integrity of youths and presents some guiding principles that can transform dreams, potentials and natural talents.
She adds, the policy framework acknowledge strong, effective, genuine and durable collaboration between government, NGOs, civil societies, private sectors and churches.
Tuki said having such approach is crucial to ensure opportunities are created to empower young people to deal with challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality.
MWYCFA Freda Tuki.
“Empowering youths socially, culturally, economically, politically and spiritually can pave way for meaningful engagement by youths at national, provincial and community level,” Tuki said.
Meanwhile, the National Youth Policy was spear headed by the MWYCFA.
Number of consultations were conducted with organisations, youth groups and communities which resulted in producing the National Youth Policy 2017—2030.
Yesterday’s event also ended with youth dialogue with Helen Clark, former UNDP Administrator and former New Zealand Prime Minister.
guests.
