|
The World Assembly of Youth (WAY) is the international coordinating body of national youth councils and organisations. The full members of WAY are national youth councils. WAY has 120 member organisations from all continents. In this bulletin: England, Jamaica, Botswana, Singapore, The Gambia, Russia, Nigeria, Scotland, Ghana, Dominica, Angola, Ireland, Brunei Darussalam, Swaziland, Malta, Zambia, Pakistan, Solom Islands, Azerbaijan, Trinidad & Tobago, China, India.
IN this bulletin:
ENGLAND : More regions announced to run Youth4U - Young Inspectors
JAMAICA : National Youth Parliamentary Watch Committee formed
BOTSWANA : BDP's Molao appointed to BNYC job ; Revised youth policy due end of year
SINGAPORE : Youth get a voice at Apec
THE GAMBIA : YMCA promoting youth entrepreneurship and leadership development
RUSSIA : International Students Day celebrated in Vladivostok
NIGERIA : Develop yourself via ICT, NGO tells youths
SCOTLAND : NYC Parliamentary visit
GHANA : Government urged to include NVTI in GETFund budget ; Drug abuse education advocated
DOMINICA : Young persons urged to vote
ANGOLA : National Council at youth, gender violence conference
IRELAND : Comhairle gives young people a voice
BRUNEI DARUSSALAM : KB hosts Malay-Islamic Youth Dialogue session
SWAZILAND : SNYC donates E15 000 to Hhukwini
MALTA : 29 local councils to take part in project for young people
ZAMBIA: Invest in youth private sector urged
PAKISTAN : UNFPA to help ministry in implementing youth policy
SOLOMON ISLANDS : Central launches youth policy
AZERBAIJAN : Prospects for development of youth policy in CIS member states discussed in Baku
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO : Care for youth, poor
CHINA : China, Japan launch dialogue between young business leaders
INDIA : Youth seek better treatment, larger role
*****************************************************************
ENGLAND
More regions announced to run Youth4U - Young Inspectors
London, Nov. 09 - Youth4U - Young Inspectors is a programme run by the Look Listen Change consortium.
Hosted by NCB, the Look Listen Change consortium includes the British Youth Council (BYC), KIDS, the National Centre for Excellence in Residential Child Care (NCERCC) and the Council for Disabled Children (CDC).
The consortium works with local authorities across England to give disadvantaged and marginalised young people greater influence over services in their areas through the Youth4U - Young Inspectors programme.
The purpose of the programme is to increase the numbers and quality of opportunities for marginalised young people to influence services; help marginalised young people to engage their peers in influencing local policies and services across a wide range of issues including locality, health, neighbourhood renewal, transport and community service; and enable young people to feedback both their and the views of their peers to local authorities and other service providers.
The programme will support adult support workers in local authorities to recruit, train and support young people to investigate and assess how local services are doing and help them to improve things where they could be better. The young people will be given the opportunity to achieve an accreditation through the programme.
To be eligible young people have to be 13-19 years old or up to 25 if they are disabled and/or have learning difficulties.
Following the third round of applications, the Look Listen Change consortium is delighted to welcome another nine regions to run Youth4U - Young Inspectors. The new regions include: Barking and Dagenham, Gateshead, Hertlepool, Birmingham, Hertfordshire, Staffordshire, Leicestershire, Peterborough, and Southampton.
Mandy Douglas, Head of Youth4U - Young Inspectors said: 'We are delighted to have been joined by more regions to run this programme. Through Youth4U - Young Inspectors, young people will be given the opportunity to have a say on the services delivered to them. This will also be a great opportunity for the young people to develop new skills and hopefully complete an accredited qualification.'
[24dash]
*****************************************************************
JAMAICA
National Youth Parliamentary Watch Committee formed
Kingston, Nov. 12 - THE executive body of the newly formed National Youth Parliamentary Watch Committee (NYPW) will shortly be announcing their areas of focus, and some of the activities that they will undertake as a group.
The NYPW was established out of a recommendation by the National Youth Parliament of 2008-2009, and will serve as a watchdog committee whose main mission is to review all Bills and policies before Parliament, and critically evaluate them for youth mainstreaming objectives.
It was launched on Thursday (November 5) in the conference room of the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, Trafalgar Road, Kingston.
Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry, Senator Warren Newby, made the announcement while speaking at the Jamaica Information Service Think Tank session on Wednesday (November 11) at the Agency's head office in Kingston.
Highlighting some of the areas of focus, Senator Newby said that they will examine and make recommendations on child justice issues.
"They have done their constitution. They have already established their meeting place and time. Their executive body is in place. In terms of the next move, they are participating in the Justice Reform Programme, looking at child justice issues," he said.
Additionally, Senator Newby said the Committee will look at the Charter of Rights Bill, which is currently being debated in the House of Representatives.
"So I expect that, before long, they will be making a statement on it," he stated.
Senator Newby said that matters raised by the Committee will have to be treated with urgency by Government, and could not be ignored, by virtue of the sheer size of the youth population.
He added that the committee will represent a wide cross-section of youths, and that the views of the youths on the corner, as well as in school and other institutions, will be included in the recommendations.
The organisation will include members of other established youth organisations, such as the Jamaica Youth Ambassadors Programme, Jamaica Union of Tertiary Students, the National Secondary Students Council, the National Youth Parliament, the Norman Manley Law School Students' Association, Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network and the National Youth Council.
[JIS]
*****************************************************************
BOTSWANA
BDP's Molao appointed to BNYC job
Gaborone, Nov. 17 - THE Botswana National Youth Council (BNYC) has appointed Mr. Fidelis Molao as the new executive director of the 'troubled' organisation. He has already 'partly' laid out his road map for the Council intending to make it a true youth organization that empowers young people to the letter.
While some people question his appointment pointing out that he is a known Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) activist and his appointment is against the principles of good governance, the BNYC chairman, Mr. Chomi Letlole, is confident that they have hired the right man for the job.In an interview with The Gazette, Letlole said Molao has no choice but to give up any political position that he is holding. The former BDP political officer is currently the chairman of the Tonota North region and is understood to have ambitions to become a parliamentary candidate in 2014.Molao's predecessor was 'pushed out' after being accused of favouring the Opposition by arranging political debates in the run-up to the general elections.
Observers point out that it was to be expected that this time around the BNYC Board would appoint a 'politically neutral' leader.Contacted for comment, Molao said he was alert to the implications of his being appointed to the BNYC.
He said, 'I was aware that I will have to leave any political office that I am holding. The BNYC executive observed that, 'being a politician does not take away my competence in other areas. I want to be judged by my performance in my new job, that would be fair,' he said.Molao applied for the position that was advertised in one of the local newspapers where the advert ran for only three days, contrary to BNYC procedures that requires vacant positions to be advertised for at least three weeks.
The advertisement of the post, the shortlist, the interviews and the appointment were all done within the space of three days.Forty-seven people had applied; Molao was shortlisted by a panel of two - chairman Letlole and secretary general Charles Mabjeng - together with four others; two women, fresh from university, one serving as an intern and the other undergoing a pupilage scheme at the Attorney General’s Chambers in Lobatse.
Two male applicants, both studying for Masters Degrees in Strategic Management, one from the private sector and one from government, were also shortlisted.According to the BNYC guidelines the interview panel should consist of a member of the Botswana Council of Non-governmental Organisations (BOCONGO), a labour officer, a lawyer, an administrator and an official of the Department of Culture and Youth.Not shortlisted Among those who were not shortlisted were business executives, Masters Degree holders and graduates with previous work experience.The panel of interviewers was made up of two corporate executives from the telecommunications industry Mabjeng made it clear that he was not part of the panel but was just there to take notes.
Some of the questions asked during the interviews were: 'Since BNYC is a demanding organization, how will you balance your work here with family issues?'If employees were to fight in the office how would you handle the situation?' It is understood that immediately after the interviews the Board met and named its preferred candidate.
It is also understood that about two or three Board members were against the choice but the majority agreed. Those interviewed were promised that they would be informed of the panel's decision within a week, but that never happened. The interviews were held on the 12th of October 2009 in the morning. Candidates took between 10 and 20 minutes in the interview room. The BNYC usually engages the services of a recruiting company, but this time around they did not. Letlole told The Gazette that they had engaged 'an independent panel.
'I distanced myself from the recruitment and the speculation that was flying around prior to Molao's appointment,'said Letlole.
[The Gazette]
Revised youth policy due end of year
Gaborone, Nov. 18 - THE Revised National Youth Policy will be finalised before the end of this year, says the Minister of Youth, Sport and Culture, Mr. Shaw Kgathi.
Answering a question in Parliament, Mr Kgathi said the revision of the policy had to undergo an extensive consultation process in order to capture the aspirations of the diverse youth population and other stakeholders before it could be finalised at the end of this year.
Mr. Kgathi said he intended to table the revised policy at the July 2010 sitting of Parliament.
In any policy formulation process, he said consultation was fundamental, adding that his ministry held consultative workshops with various stakeholders including youth organisations and the Botswana National Youth Council (BNYC) throughout the country.
He explained that BNYC organised the workshops and played an active role in the revision of the policy.
He was responding to a question from Shoshong MP, Mr. Dikgang Makgalemele who had asked the minister when the Revised Youth Policy will be finalised and brought to Parliament.
Mr. Makgalemele also wanted to know whether the youth and BNYC were consulted.
Answering another question from the same MP, Mr. Kgathi said significant progress had been achieved in the implementation of the National Action Plan for Youth (2001-2010).
He said a fully fledged Department of Youth had been established to coordinate and direct National Youth Policy with 32 district youth offices opened and 57 constituency youth officers.
Mr. Kgathi said 35 principal youth officers had been appointed in all line ministries and local authorities to identify youth empowerment opportunities.
He said the Out-of-school Youth programme was launched in 2001/2002 to enable youth to venture into viable and sustainable business enterprises for economic empowerment.
He explained that to-date 2 752 projects had been financed through the programme creating employment for 2 827 young people distributed fairly throughout the country.
Mr. Kgathi said during the 2009/20 financial year the Out-of-School grant was transformed into youth development fund, which had since been distributed equally among the 57 constituencies.
Since the establishment of the fund, 187 projects had been approved.
The minister said recreational facilities and equipment continued to be provided to youth for leisure.
So far assistance has been given to youth groups and community based multi-purpose youth centers in Mosojane, New Xade, Serinane, Mahalapye and Khakhea. In addition a multi purpose Youth Centre is currently under construction in Gaborone, added Mr Kgathi.
He said Youth talent search programmes aimed at identifying, developing and nurturing youth talent were being implemented including the Botswana National Service Youth Award, Youth Rallies and Youth Exchange.
He noted that with respect to the Shoshong constituency a total of 20 projects at a total cost of P679 368.99 were approved under the Out-of-school programme creating employment for 25 young people.
Under the Youth Development Fund, 5 projects namely Fashion design, Day care centre, Arts and Craft, small stock, dog breeding have been approved at the cost of P377 780.00 with the projected employment of 18 in the constituency.
Mr. Makgalemele had wanted know what progress has been made in implementing the National Action Plan for youth 2001-2010 especially with regard to rural areas.
[BOPA]
*****************************************************************
SINGAPORE
Youth get a voice at Apec
Singapore, Nov. 05 - EXPECT an alternative and fresh perspective at this year's Apec summit.
Youth delegates from the Apec Voices of the Future (VOF) programme will assume the role of journalists and get a chance to interview economic and business leaders, and observe Apec meetings. They will then report on the happenings using popular social media such as Twitter, Facebook and blogs.
The 120 delegates from the Apec economies will also post articles of their interviews on the VOF 2009 website (www.apecvof09.org) during the course of the programme.
VOF is executed by a youth organising committee comprising youth volunteers from various local youth organisations, and is jointly organised by the National Youth Council (NYC) in cooperation with the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and the National Youth Achievement Award (NYAA) Council.
Held from Nov. 9-15, VOF aims to encourage active participation of young people on Apec-related issues and policies, provide learning opportunities for youth to interact with world leaders and business leaders, and facilitate networking and interaction among youth from the Apec economies to encourage mutual understanding and cooperation.
[The Straits Times]
*****************************************************************
THE GAMBIA
YMCA promoting youth entrepreneurship and leadership development
Banjul, Nov. 27 - YOUNG people should always engage in skills training as a tool to national development because it is what helps a government and its people to grow. This was the message of The Gambia Deputy Permanent Secretary of State for Youths and Sports, the Hon Mamacgic Njie, speaking at a YMCA advocacy campaign last week.
The theme of the two-day campaign on 19-20 November 2009 was 'Promoting youth entrepreneurship and leadership development in The Gambia'. A key focus was on skills development, while other issues included illegal migration, child labour and sexual harassment in the workplace.
“Youth unemployment or underemployment is a huge problem in our country. Youth are unemployed because they lack qualification in skills or education to earn a decent job in the job market,” said Hon Njie.
Added to this, there is a stigma attached to having a trade, instead of being a professional with a tertiary education. So this is a barrier to skills training in The Gambia as people look down on you and sometimes laugh at you for being in a trade. For example, if two young men seek a young woman's hand in marriage - one a mechanic and the other a civil servant – both the woman and the family would prefer the option of the civil servant over the mechanic who has a workshop. Peer pressure was also seen as a barrier to youth development in entrepreneurship and skills training.
The Gambia YMCA is tackling this problem by advocacy to the authorities for more attention to skills training – both sensitization to it and provision of it. Part of this involves promoting that skills training is not for school drop-outs or for 'stupid' youth. The government's role is to work NGOs to educate Gambian citizens to know the importance and the effect it would cause on the economy - so youth understand they are partners in nation development.
“We are also building partners with other organisations and NGOs to help in the development of youth so they can develop their skills and contribute as citizens to this country,” said Sam Thorpe, National General Secretary of The Gambia YMCA.
The YMCA provides skills training in all regions of The Gambia to help youth acquire skills and equip them for work, especially entrepreneurship. The YMCA is then provides micro finance and assistance in setting up businesses for those who qualify for the loan, and helps others to get a job. The number of youth trained is about 900 a year in skills like hair dressing, tailoring, carpentry, welding, catering, etc.
“I was pregnant and sent out of school so I couldn't finish my schooling. I went to YMCA and did a catering course. I am now taking care of myself and family. Bravo to the YMCA and if every institution is doing like them, then Gambia would be a better place,” said Eli.
Another beneficiary commented, “We are proud of the YMCA for educating us with skills training because it is really what we need to earn a living. I dropped out of school because of finance, and I am now proud to say that I am earning something unlike before when I used to beg.”
For the government's part, the Hon Njie said, “The government is planning to increase the number of intakes at the national youth service scheme from 200, knowing the number of student who graduate from secondary schools is increasing.” He added that the government is monitoring training institutions, so youth can work hard to acquire certificates either in skills training or in educational aspects. Any institution that does not live up to standards or expectations will be closed.
The Hon Njie said the government was proud to partner with the YMCA in youth development and committed continued support. He encouraged youth to be determined to move forward and ask “what do I want and how can I get it?”.
Commenting on the change in mindset of youth who are involved in the YMCA skills training, Rose Sambou, member of the National Youth Council, said, “Youth are moving from depending on their family to acquiring skills that would help them be somebody in society. They are ready to face the challenges and move ahead.”
Also present were the Deputy Ambassador to Spain, National Assembly Members, and leadership from Senegal YMCA. A march pass was also done on the highway with about 130 youths, holding posters and banners and led by a scout band to highlight the issues affecting us as youth.
As a youth leader myself, I encourage all youth to tap on any resource that can help us change. Let us advocate in the right way and involve people in power and channel our problems productively. We need to listen and be listened to. Giving up is not an option. Africa is ours and we are African so let's develop Africa as a nation and as nations.
[Africa Alliance News]
*****************************************************************
RUSSIA
International Students Day celebrated in Vladivostok
Vladivostok, Nov. 24 - THE International Students Day was solemnly celebrated in the night club “Pallada” in Vladivostok on November 22. About 1 200 students of different Vladivostok universities gathered to celebrate the festival of youth exuberant energy in a big way. This fabulous party and entertainments were organized by the Vladivostok City Administration Department of Youth Policy as a present for the students; RIA PrimaMedia was informed in the press service of the Vladivostok City Administration.
The 84-kilogram cake decorated with the symbol of the Youth Year was baked for the university students; it was a surprise
The ceremony of awarding opened the festival; the leaders of youth centers of Vladivostok institutions of higher secondary and elementary education were awarded with letter of appreciation and souvenirs for taking active part in the arranging and conducting of the city youth events in 2008-2009 academic year.
Natalia MALTSEVA, the Chief of the Vladivostok City Administration Department of Youth Policy, congratulating the gown noted that the year of 2009 – the Youth Year – is rather successful and full of bright and remarkable events. “Vladivostok can be rightfully named the city of students that is why it has become possible for the Vladivostok City Administration to implement the range projects jointly with the youth public associations besides, we are pleased to develop and keep up the students traditions and support the gifted young people to attain their ambitions,” Natalia MALTSEVA says.
Michael and Sasha starring in the television series “University” (TNT TV channel) were specially invited to host the students’ party and entertained the guests. Over 20 students groups came on the scene and the 84-kilogram cake decorated with the symbol of the Youth Year was the culmination of the party. Everybody could taste the delicious giant.
Besides, the youngsters had a chance to dance at disco from the Vladivostok peppiest DJs and see the fire-show as well as take part in funny competitions and get nice prizes from the Vladivostok City Administration Department of Youth Policy.
[Vladivostok Times]
*****************************************************************
NIGERIA
Develop yourself via ICT, NGO tells youths
Lagos, Nov. 25 - A Trustee of the Nigeria Network of Non-Governmental Organisations (NNNGO), Ms. Yemisi Ransome-Kuti, has called on Nigerian youth to de-emphasise undue reliance on governments and the private sector, and to promote self-development through the use of ICT.
She gave the advice in a key-note address delivered on her behalf by the Network's Membership, Advocacy & Campaign Co-ordinator, at the 1st National ICT Conference for Youth Development held recently at the Women Centre, Lagos.
At the forum with a theme 'Exploring the Frontiers of Information & Communications Technology for Youth Development', Ransome-Kuti said the Nigerian youth must free itself from the quagmire of development.
However, to do this, she said "genuine effort must be made to build partnerships, committing yourselves to good causes and in mapping out personal growth plans that will be effectively pursued with NGOs, Governments and the private sector as partners and supporters."
The NGO boss said the missing link between youth development and ICT "is the failure of our youth to fully deploy the numerous benefits of ICT to their full benefits", according to an information provided by Mr. Kunle Idowu, NNNGO's media consultant.
She said, "A disturbingly large number of our youth have over the years waited for handouts from their fathers, mothers, uncles, NGOs, governments and the private sector so much that they have forgotten to put their creativity into action, that is, thinking creatively out of the box and in using the ICT effectively."
In his welcome address, the National PRO of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Mr. Hamid Abiola, explained that the global trend in ICT awareness has become a stable concept; where every facet of human endeavour in the present day world requires ICT skills to work.
"Information and communication are essential tools for effective Public Relations and Career Development. From e-banking to e-commerce; e-learning, e-agriculture e-payment, e-employment and e-government; the world has become a micro system for implementing every idea and concept."
"Young ones," he added, "are the greatest explorers of ICT resource and opportunities all over the world. Today the NYCN is faced with the challenges of increasing the awareness of the youth in the ICT and subsequent facilitation of enabling opportunities for over 84 million Nigerian youths through the ICT world".
This measure, he said, is a means towards re-positioning the youths for greater opportunities, which is a necessary tool for national growth and development.
On the Conference objectives, he said efforts would be made to create mass awareness for youths in ICT and its immense opportunities as alternative to job sourcing, create platform for access to ICT training.
There are also moves for empowerment through NYCN intervention project - One Computer to One Youth Project, and also plans to establish platform for collaborating with government and private sectors in combating ICT related economic and financial crimes (cyber crime) among the youth.
Abiola enumerated the constraints and impediments confronting the Nigerian youth, and said there are over 150 voluntary youth organisations affiliated to the NYCN throughout the country.
"Though the Council has a fine structure, it has low strength for tackling the problem of capacity building for her teeming members. Today, the nation itself is not left out of the global crisis of employment provision for youth".
To him, the antidote to the peculiar unemployment syndrome is the provision of trainings and basic facilities for developing expertise skills of the willing youths so as to reposition them for enabling opportunities of life.
Abiola said innovative ideas is the key to the nation's industrial growth in a country of over 140 million people where 80 million belong to the working class and only 16 million are gainfully employed, leaving another 54 million unemployed and roaming about the streets searching for the jobs that are not available, and 80 per cent of the unemployed being youths.
"We seek to bridge the vacuum created in our economic system by unemployment through the development of ICT driven entrepreneurship as an alternative to the unemployment scourge fighting our country. Any nation that wants real and sustainable growth must prioritise ICT and entrepreneurship in national development strategies", he said.
To him, the use of ICT is in fact one of the major reasons for the gap between the developed and developing nations -the digital divide.
[This Day]
*****************************************************************
SCOTLAND
NYC Parliamentary visit
Edinburgh, Nov. 26 - THE NYC attended the Scottish Parliament on the 26th of November primarily as an opportunity for them to find out more about how the parliament works.
They started the day with a tour of the building, and then will watch First Minister’s questions in the chamber. In the afternoon members of the NYC have invited MSPs along to meet them and to find out more about what the LGBT NYC is and does.
The event is kindly sponsored by Aileen Campbell MSP.
Members of the NYC were keened to talk to MSPs about what the NYC means to them and what they get out of being involved, as well as gave MSPs information on their new campaigns for this year. The first of these campaigns is the ME 2 campaign involving dozens of pictures of young people shouting out “ME 2” for marriage equality – campaigning to highlight that there are real and important differences between marriage and civil partnerships in Scotland.
[LGBT News]
*****************************************************************
GHANA
Government urged to include NVTI in GETFund budget
Kumasi, Nov. 2 - DR. Sekou Nkrumah, the Acting National Coordinator of National Youth Council (NYC), has appealed to the government to include the National Vocational Training Institute (NVTI) in the GETFund budget.
He described as disheartening the situation where youth leadership training centres in the country are left out of the GETFund budget.
"This is unhelpful to the drive to equip the youth with employable skills to make them economically self-supporting."
Dr. Nkrumah said this in an address read for him at the close of a two-week instructional training techniques course in Kumasi for 47 National Youth Council (NYC) instructors drawn from the 10 regions.
It was meant to help train more instructors to become professionally competent in their fields of specialization.
The participants were taken through carpentry, general electrical, dressmaking, block-laying, plumbing works, cookery and general agriculture.
Dr. Nkrumah said technical training was one of the tools that could help to bring down the high unemployment among the youth.
The Director of NVTI, Mr. Stephen Bismark Amponsah, said it was important instructors upgrade themselves through industrial attachment so that they could impart skills acquired to their students.
He appealed to the government, organizations and philanthropists for more support to enable the institute to provide quality vocational and technical training to the people.
Mr. Amponsah complained about sub-standard workshops, insufficient tools and equipment and called on the government to help address the situation.
He said he was also not happy with the incorrect placement or ranking of instructors and the poor remuneration.
[GNA]
Drug abuse education advocated
Accra, Nov. 29 - MR. Solomon Stanley Eyo an official of the Narcotic Control Board, has called for the intensification of public education on the dangers of drug abuse and trafficking in the country.
It is when people get to know of the dangers that "we can start to meaningfully find solutions and at least try to control it".
Mr. Eyo was speaking at a day's workshop in Kumasi on Saturday for 60 selected leaders from various youth groups in the Ashanti Region.
It was organized by the Narcotics Control Board and the Ashanti Regional branch of the National Youth Council (NYC) to educate the youth on the causes, effects and solutions to hard drugs.
The Regional Head hoped after the workshop the participants would be able to support the Board in its efforts to control drug abuse and its menace in the region.
He urged the youth to come out with plans and ideas that would help to free the country from drug abuse and trafficking since that has been the source and root of many of the crimes in the country.
This, he said, would also help to ensure peace and tranquillity in the communities in the country.
Mr. Eyo said people had used drugs since time immemorial, especially in the form of natural herbs and some semi-processed forms, which have been of great importance and help.
"Our ancestors used herbs as food and medicine and that helped them to sustain their lives and even live longer.
"However, in this era of advanced civilization the menace of drugs abuse has been creating instability and threat to life".
He added that drugs like Cannabis Sativa, commonly called marijuana, cocaine, heroine and psychotropic substances cause havoc and illicit drug trafficking.
He said the indulgence in such drugs had led to the increase of rape cases, prostitution, street children, armed robbery, hooliganism and even terrorism, suicide bombing and now the spread of the deadly disease, HIV-AIDS.
Ghana, he said, as part of the current global village could not escape from the deadly influence and consequence of narcotic drugs both in trafficking and consumption.
He said it was important that public education was intensified, especially among the youth to enable them change their attitudes and desist from the use of illicit drugs.
[GNA]
*****************************************************************
DOMINICA
Young persons urged to vote
Roseau, Nov. 23 - YOUTHS on the island are being encouraged to vote.
President of the National Youth Council Delroy Williams said while the young people in Dominica are not too concerned about the politics in Dominica, they should exercise their democratic rights to vote.
“It is important to register to vote and so I want to encourage all the young people to do so. It is significant that we vote because it will direct Dominica’s development because we are the future of this country. We are also able right now, to choose who will represent us for the next five years,” he said.
He is also encouraging the youth to vote based on the various issues affecting the country and not on any political party.
“It is important to align yourself with a particular political party but it is even more important that you vote based on the issues that will affect you as a person and population. I would want the young people to listen to all sides and vote based on the issues that will affect them and on the things that they know will allow us to contribute to the country’s development,” he said.
[DNO]
*****************************************************************
ANGOLA
National Council at youth, gender violence conference
Luanda, Nov. 25 - A Delegation from the National Council of Youth (CNJ) is attending the International Conference of Youth and Gender-Based Violence, opened on 23 November in Madrid, Spain.
According to an official note released by CNJ and delivered Wednesday to Angop, the delegation led by CNJ chairperson, Cláudio Aguiar, integrates the organisation members from the provinces of Malanje, Cunene and Bié.
With this activity, the organisation intends to adopt integral protection measures against gender-based violence, staging awareness campaigns, addressed to the young people, which are considered important instruments for holding interchange among several nations.
Promoted by Spanish Youth Institute, the two-day event gathers youths from Africa, America and Europe.
[ANGOP]
*****************************************************************
IRELAND
Comhairle gives young people a voice
Limerick, Nov. 20 – THE Comhairle, which is part of a programme being run by the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, is a local forum for young people where they can discuss local and national issues of relevance to them.
Up to 60 students and young people from across County Limerick participated in the eight annual Comhairle na nÓg at County Hall, Dooradoyle today.
Delegates - representing Schools, Youth Projects, Youthreach, Voluntary Youth Clubs and Special Interest Groups throughout the County - this year chose to discuss the issues of “Alcohol and Drugs” and “Internet Safety and Social Networking Sites”. They also nominated 21 of their fellow delegates to a newly developed County Limerick Youth Council.
The Council, which will meet six times a year and is supported by Limerick Youth Service, will give members the opportunity to raise matters that concern them with the relevant authorities and agencies, in particular to liaise and consult with Limerick County Council, the County Limerick Youth Affairs Sub-Committee and others, on issues of relevance to young people. The Council members will also nominate students to represent the County at Dail na nÓg or “Youth Parliament” in March when Comhairlí representatives from 34 local authority areas around the country convene in Dublin.
Addressing delegates today, Councillor David Naughton, Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council said: “Since its foundation in 2002, Limerick County Comhairle na nÓg has seen a steady increase in its membership which is a tribute to those who coordinate it and continue to develop the initiative.”
He added: “The Comhairle is a wonderful opportunity for young people to contribute to making things better for themselves and their communities. I am delighted to see that Comhairle na nÓg is increasingly being recognised by local, regional and national bodies, which proves that the process is effective and does make a difference to the lives of young people.”
Councillor Naughton congratulated those involved in organising Limerick County Comhairle na nÓg, including the staff of Limerick County Council’s community and enterprise section along with the Limerick County Development Board; Jackie Dwane, youth officer with County Limerick VEC; Maurice Walsh and his team from Limerick Youth Service; and the Facilitators and Note takers who assisted delegates in preparing their presentations.”
Speaking following Comhairle na nÓg 2009, Ms Josephine Cotter Coughlan, Director of Services stated: “The Community and Enterprise section of Limerick County Council, the Limerick County Development Board and other bodies throughout the County are very aware of the importance of considering the opinions of younger members of the community when devising local or national policy. In recent years, the input and opinions of local Comhairle delegates have helped to formulate national policies affecting the lives of young people. On a local level, Limerick County Council has developed many policies with substantial input from children and young people.”
Commenting on the theme of “Alcohol and Drugs”, Ms. Cotter Coughlan stated: “Alcohol and drug misuse can have a devastating impact on individuals, families and entire communities. It is one of the biggest issues facing Irish society and, therefore, it is important that every member of society has their say on how it should be handled.”
On the issue of “Internet Safety and Social Networking Sites”, Ms. Cotter Coughlan said there was no mistaking the many risks arising from new communication technologies becoming a part of the daily life of children.
“In recent years - through the widespread use of email, social networking sites and instant messaging - we have witnessed how the anonymous and far reaching communication capabilities of the Internet have brought a new dimension to child protection issues. In this context, I am delighted that Comhairle delegates have empowered themselves to determine, understand and manage the risks associated with the internet and social networking sites. Nevertheless, it is critical to emphasise that the Internet has a very positive influence on the lives of young people in Ireland”, she added.
In recent years, children and young people from every part of County Limerick have discussed a variety of issues, including anti-social behaviour in the community, the way future recreation facilities and youth cafes will be developed and managed; and the development of playgrounds.
[PRLog]
*****************************************************************
BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
KB hosts Malay-Islamic Youth Dialogue session
Kuala Belait, Nov. 11 - OVER 200 students and members of various youth associations in the Belait District attended a session of the Malay-Islamic Youth Dialogue that was held at the Dewan Santap in Kuala Belait on 10 November 2009.
The event marked the first time the Malay-Islamic Youth Dialogue was held in the Belait District.
The dialogue, which carries the theme "Kesempurnaan Akhlak Belia Islam," (Propriety of Character in Islamic Youth) is held in conjunction with His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam's 63rd birthday celebrations.
The Vice-President of the Belait District Youth Council, Dr Hj Azasahibul bin Hj Zainal Abidin in his welcoming remarks said that the youth constitute a valuable national asset and are dynamic stakeholders in the nation's survival.
"Therefore it is imperative to groom the youth beforehand for the sake of the nation's development," he said.
The dialogue is organised by the Brunei Youth Council in cooperation with the Islamic Dakwah Centre. The session featured a talk entitled "Management of Tarbiah and Sahsiah" that was delivered by Mohamed Mailiki bin Mohamed Rapiee from the Malaysia Youth Council.
The event ended with a presentation of certificates to participants by the Assistant Belait District Officer, Hj Abd Hamid bin Dato Paduka Hj Abdullah.
[Bru Direct]
*****************************************************************
SWAZILAND
SNYC donates E15 000 to Hhukwini
Hhukwini, Nov. 27 - ON Wednesday, the Swaziland National Youth Council (SNYC) was joined by Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Hlobsile Ndlovu when visiting Hhukwini where they had gone to see an agriculture project.
The project is operated by a youth association called Sibonelo Hhukwini Multi Purpose Farms, which is a member of SNYC. The project of 30 hectors being operated on land donated by Her Majesty the Queen Mother got capital from the Taiwanese Embassy and SNYC in 2007.
SNYC made a donation of E15 000 and for the association to purchase farming inputs. Making her remarks during the event, the honourable minister mentioned that she visited the project in 2007 with the then minister of regional development and youth affairs, Chief Sipho Shongwe whilst she was a deputy to the latter.
She said she was very impressed to see that the project is still operational with the same people that started it. She underlined that among other government priorities, effective utilisation of land for agriculture purpose was of priority. I want to encourage you to work diligently so you can grow and sustain what you have already maintained. I hope other young people from other constituencies will learn from you and take this project as a best practice,” the minister said.
She also informed members of the youth association that the long awaited youth enterprise fund regulations have been approved by parliament and they are now with the ministry. She promised the young people that the money will be available before the end this financial year.
SNYC chairperson Sifiso Khumalo said the council has a track record of supporting good initiatives and was still determined to continue supporting youth projects.
He said agriculture is the backbone of the Swazi economy since it contributes significantly the growth of the Swazi economy therefore the association should stay united and maintain consistency to improve their lives and that of others.
Khumalo promised that SNYC was looking at reviewing strategies so to improve quality of programmes.
[Observer]
*****************************************************************
MALTA
29 local councils to take part in project for young people
Valletta, Nov. 07 - TWENTY-NINE local councils have applied to take part in the local councils project for young people, launched in September by the youth and sport parliamentary secretariat and the national youth council.
The initiative will offer the opportunity to young people to take part in the political process of discussing and deciding on matters affecting their locality. Their meetings will be structured according to the sittings which local councils hold.
Invitations are to be made to young people in the localities which applied so that they will be able to take part. Applications may be made up to 2 December.
The localities which applied to take part are Valletta, Vittoriosa, Birkirkara, Cospicua, Birzebbugia, Fgura, Floriana, Gudja, Iklin, Mtarfa, Msida, Senglea, Kirkop, Mosta, Nadur, Naxxar, Pieta, Qormi, Rabat, Victoria, San Gwann, St Julian's, San Lawrenz, St Paul's Bay, Siggiewi, Swieqi, Tarxien, Zebbug and Zurrieq.
[The Malta Independent]
*****************************************************************
ZAMBIA
Invest in youth private sector urged
Lusaka, Nov. 26 - PRESIDENT Banda has called on development agencies and the private sector to consider investing in programmes that change young people’s attitudes and mould their characters in positive ways.
Mr. Banda says young people need more programmes which change their behaviour in positive ways, develop their self-confidence, responsibility, compassion, leadership and self-motivation.
He said such programmes are needed because they also help young people to be organised and work as a team with determination to deliver service.
The President said this at State House yesterday when he presented Gold Award level certificates and badges to Chengelo School participants who attained the level of Gold Award.
The Gold Award is the highest achievement which challenges young people’s commitment, perseverance, independence, motivation, responsibility, team work and attitudes to the less privileged in society.
“As patron of the International Awards for Young People of Zambia, I am very pleased to be accorded this opportunity to present gold certificates and badges to these deserving young people who have fulfilled the requirements for this level, which is the highest in the award programme,” he said.
Mr. Banda said he is aware that young people have undertaken various voluntary and challenging activities in serving their local communities, improving their talents in sport, developing their wider interests and challenging themselves through adventures into the bush.
He said the young people who received gold certificates and badges have been committed and motivated themselves in completing the gold level of the award.
Mr. Banda said having gone through the award programme, the young people have now joined an exclusive group of youth around the world who have managed to complete it.
“I want to congratulate each one of you for this achievement. I know that it has taken a lot of perseverance and determination to complete the requirements of being a gold award holder,” he said.
Mr Banda thanked the Ministry of Sport, Youth and Child Development, the National Youth Development Council and the Commonwealth Youth Programme Regional Centre for Africa for spearheading the re-establishment of a National Award Authority in Zambia. He said his desire is to see the award become available to all young people across the country.
Mr Banda said the establishment of a national office for the award programme will make it available to more young people both in rural and urban areas of the country.
Earlier, Ndubaluba director and Chengelo School Adventure Curriculum coordinator Richard Thompson said the school has been running the International Award for Young People as an independent operator for the last 12 years.
“In that time, I have seen hundreds of young people participate in this award and benefit greatly from it. One of the phrases the Award uses is ‘Challenging young people everywhere,” he said.
Mr Thompson said through the award, he has seen young people get challenged in many ways and that the group that received Gold Award level certificates and badges yesterday had been challenged by canoeing across Lake Tanganyika, fixing cars, improving their squash, football and netball skills, serving in hospitals and orphanages.
He said the challenge brings opportunities for change in young people who grow in positive ways.
Mr Thompson said the growth in character has been evident in many young people who have completed the Gold Award at its different levels at Chengelo School in the past.
“Now, we need to congratulate these young people here who have developed the necessary character to not only gain their Gold Award but also, more importantly, to help face the many challenges that lie ahead of them and their community,” he said.
[Zambia Daily Mail]
*****************************************************************
PAKISTAN
UNFPA to help ministry in implementing youth policy
Islamabad, Nov. 21 - THE Ministry of Youth Affairs and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) plans to sign memorandum of understanding under which UNFPA will provide technical and financial assistance to the ministry for the implementation of National Youth Policy.
A source in the ministry told ‘The News’ that according to the MoU, the UNFPA will take a lead role in coordination and collaboration with all UN agencies and act as a focal UN agency for youth related initiatives. “The UNFPA will also mobilise local NGOs and focal groups to effectively carry out youth related programmes at grass-roots level through community participation,” he said.
The basic project to be dealt under MoU will be the Youth Activity Centres the ministry plans to open at districts. The PC-1 for these centres had already been sent to Planning Commission for approval. These centres will be established in coordination with district administration departments mostly in vacant government buildings.
The basic objective of these centres is to facilitate the deprived youth of remote areas and promote entertainment as well as knowledge-based activities among the younger generation. Gym and library will be the major features of these facilities.
The UNFPA will assist the ministry in its capacity building on conceptualising, designing and establishing 100 Youth Activity Centres in line with the UNFPA Youth-Friendly Model. Further more, it will provide necessary financial assistance to the ministry to operate Youth Activity Centres. It will also provide technical assistance to the ministry to set up Technical Support Unit (TSU) for these centres.
The UN agency will design and organise extensive training programmes for TSU personnel of the ministry for proper implementation of objectives. The training will strengthen the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) capacity of TSU and will also support in developing M&E framework for Youth Programme. The source said that major projects for the implementation of National Youth Policy are in the stage of planning and paper work.
[The News International]
*****************************************************************
SOLOMON ISLANDS
Central launches youth policy
Tulagi, Nov. 17 - HUNDREDS of young men and women representing youth groups, churches, schools and communities in and around Central Islands province gathered at the provincial capital Tulagi to participate and witness the official launching of the Central Islands Province Youth Policy.
In receiving the policy document, the Minister responsible for Youth Affairs Stanley Manetiva’a acknowledged the magnificent job done by the youth of CIP who have worked tirelessly and brave hardship during the consultation process to ensure that the document that contain their voice, cry and aspiration is completed.
He assured the youths that the provincial government cannot make miracles happened but as Minister responsible for youth affairs he will ensure that the voice of young men and women in CIP be heard in the provincial government level.
Denton Enriko (Youth Development Officer) within the Ministry of Women, Youth & Children Affairs who represent the Ministry in the launching ceremony, highlighted that the Government recognises these young men and women as valuable human resources not only for the CIP but for the nation.
“The Youth Development Division is obliged to provide assistance and technical expertise to ensure that provincial youth polices are in place,” Mr Enriko said.
“ The importance of having a provincial youth policy cannot be over-emphasised however, it is the document that will provide a platform and chart the direction of youth development within Central Islands Province and other provinces that will follow suit.”
Central Islands Province is second to Isabel that has launched their provincial youth policy.
[Solomon Star]
*****************************************************************
AZERBAIJAN
Prospects for development of youth policy in CIS member states discussed in Baku
Baku, Nov. 05 - YOUTH policy and prospects for cooperation were discussed in Baku as part of the Days of CIS Youth held on Nov. 4 to 7.
Nearly 4.5 million has been allocated for the youth policy from the budget of the Youth and Sport Ministry this year, Azerbaijan's Deputy Youth and Sport Minister Intigam Babayev said at the roundtable on the youth policy of the CIS states.
He said that the government increases the funds for the youth policy every year.
The delegations of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Russia and Moldova gave information about the youth policy in their countries.
Azerbaijani delegation made the first report.
The representative of the Youth and Sport Ministry briefed on programs envisaging solution of the social problems of the youth, support for the young families, talented young people and students.
[APA]
*****************************************************************
AUSTRALIA
Govovernment youth policy: all talk, no ‘conversation’
Canberra, Nov. 11 - THE 2009 Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) report, “How Young People Are Faring”, gives a sobering contrast to the sterile reports of GDP figures and swings in the All Ordinaries index.
Released on October 8, the FYA report showed the economic situation for young people is deteriorating at an alarming rate. It found the numbers of teenagers not studying or working full-time rose from 13.4% to 16.4% — the highest level since the early 1990s.
The report also found teenage unemployment not in full-time education had risen from 12.2% in 2008 to 18.5% in 2009. It said, “the last 12 months has seen reduced rates of entry into full-time work for school leavers”.
FYA CEO Adam Smith said the report’s findings were “concerning signs about the declining wellbeing of young Australians”.
“In these turbulent times, the challenge for all of us is to provide innovative pathways and new opportunities for young people so that they can realise their full potential."
That certainly is the challenge, but the Rudd government is not offering any “innovative pathways”.
Federal youth minister Kate Ellis announced a National Strategy for Young Australians on October 22. A centrepiece of the announcement was a “nationwide conversation” with young people.
But the “conversation” Ellis wants has the government doing all the talking and none of the listening.
Already, the government has announced seven “priorities” of the youth strategy. However, not once in the strategy’s discussion paper is climate change, or the environment, mentioned.
Climate change will have a huge impact on the lives of all young people. They will face the consequences from decisions not of their making.
In a nationwide poll of 37,000 young people, organised by the Australian Youth Climate Coalition in September, 97.5% voted for emissions cut targets much higher than those proposed by the government.
Young people’s strong views on climate change could be one reason the government is reluctant to have a conversation about it.
Other discussion topics are also excluded from the “conversation”, such as youth unemployment, unequal access to university, gender or sexual or racial discrimination, public transport, housing affordability or social security.
Instead, the government wants to discuss “areas of concern that require national action”, which include binge drinking, mental health and violence.
Yet these things are all symptoms of broader social problems, which the government doesn’t want to “talk” about. How can violence among young people be tackled, if dealing with youth unemployment or racial discrimination is not a part of it?
The government can’t expect a “conversation” when it doesn’t want to hear what young people have to say.
So Resistance offers the following points to start a real discussion about solving some of the biggest problems facing young people today.
·Young people should be trained to help meet the climate emergency. A huge program of publicly-funded investment in renewable energy is needed to help avert climate catastrophe. Young people should be skilled up and employed in this sector.
·Youth wages should be abolished. It is discriminatory and provides a disincentive for young people to find work.
·The government should place a nationwide moratorium on rent increases. High house prices and record rent hikes have hurt young people, worsening poverty.
·Youth Allowance and Newstart benefits should be raised from their current levels, which are far below the poverty line. No young person in Australia should have to live in poverty while they are studying or looking for work.
·Education should be free. Education should be for all, not just the rich; reducing the growing costs of attending higher education would be the first step to reducing this disparity.
·Young people must get the vote. Reducing the voting age to 16 is an important democratic reform. Young people can drive, work and pay taxes at 16, so they should also be allowed to vote.
[Green Left Weekly]
*****************************************************************
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
Care for youth, poor
Port of Spain, Nov. 28 - HEAD of the Commonwealth, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, stressed yesterday that some of the people least able to withstand the adverse effects of global warming live in the Commonwealth.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Heads of Government Meeting at the National Academy for the Performing Arts in Port of Spain, the Queen said the Commonwealth had the opportunity to lead in the international response to climatic change on the eve of the Copenhagen summit.
’The threat to our environment is not new, but it is now a global challenge which would continue to affect the security and stability of millions for years to come. Many of those affected are among the most vulnerable and many of the people who are least able to withstand the adverse effects live in the Commonwealth,’ the Queen stated.
She said a second area of opportunity for the Commonwealth was nurturing young people.
’While the Commonwealth may rightly celebrate marking its 60th Anniversary, the future of association lies with one billion who are under the age of 25 years,’ she said, adding that the Commonwealth must be relevant to the youth and show them that it can help them to realise their ambitions.
The Queen said that for small island states, the economic storms over the last 12 months had provided a stern test. She added that great resourcefulness was required to meet this challenge and that the Commonwealth must remain dedicated to building resilience among its members.
’But it is not enough to look within the borders of the Commonwealth. In a world where economic, political and environmental problems and opportunities cross continents, the Commonwealth would also need to prove its relevance beyond its own borders and develop a truly global perspective,’ she said.
The opening, held in the auditorium, saw four addresses and an impressive cultural show by Brian Mac Farlane. The 53 delegates and the Queen sat on the stage.
In his address, CHOGM chairman, Prime Minister Patrick Manning, said if the world economy was to return to safe ground, it must be through partnership. Noting that it was joint action between the industrialised and emerging countries that brought the world back from the economic brink, he said: ’The developing countries, therefore, can no longer be left behind. Here reside the majority of humanity, tremendous resources and the largest market of the world-all fundamental to global economic resurgence and sustainability.’
Manning said there was hope. He said through the recent meeting of the G-20, in which five Commonwealth members participated, the organisation was playing a role in preventing a recurrence of the global financial crisis, in restructuring the international financial institutions to make them more inclusive and sensitive to different levels of development, and in making financial resources for growth more accessible to countries of the developing world.
’These are signs of the silver lining over the present cloud over the global economy,’ he said, adding: ’The Commonwealth must play its part towards the fulfillment of this promise, which must not turn out to be another agonising illusion.’
Partnering for a more equitable and sustainable future is clearly an imperative, not just for the Commonwealth but for the entire international community, the Prime Minister stated. He noted that this partnership must extend to all areas of concern-including non-communicable diseases as well as climatic change.
’We must not be victims of any pessimism of the outcome of this (Copenhagen) meeting.’
Noting that the Commonwealth reflects the diverse positions on this issue, Manning urged: ’Let the Commonwealth in Port of Spain in November ensure success for the UN in Copenhagen in December.’
He also urged CHOGM to pursue free flow of trade and investment, (for all including the small, poor and vulnerable countries), to collaborate in technology transfer to improve efficiency and productivity, and also to create wealth for improved education, health care, housing, security and infrastructure development.
Outgoing chairman, Uganda President HE Yoweri Museveni, whose government is considering the passage of the controversial homosexuality bill, noted that the CHOGM was the only international meeting that did not require interpreters. But he spoke of the difficulties of developing African nations. He said the eight essential qualities of proper development were education and health for all, liberalisation and private sector-led growth, value addition to raw material, modernisation of infrastructure, regional integration, fair trade and an end to protectionism by developed countries, sustaining democratic governments and state-building including capable armed forces and a corrupt free judiciary. He said ’black Africa was at last waking up’ to these imperatives.
Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma said the Commonwealth had to restate its shared responsibility to the preservation of the planet. He said the Commonwealth was generally swift to help and slow to chide. It also tended to small and developing states as well as vulnerable populations such as women and the youth.
’The Commonwealth is younger than ever in its 60th year,’ he said, adding that it was time, however, to push forward in its pioneering ways. He said the meeting must respond to the call for partnership in pursuit of equity and sustainability.
’In a world of headlong globalism, we are the great global good contributing to the globalism of a wisdom,’ he said.
[Trinidad & Tobago Express]
*****************************************************************
CANADA
Scouts Canada designates $1 million to accelerate its mission for Canadian youth
Ottawa, Nov. 20 - AT Scouts Canada's national conference held in downtown Regina this weekend, Chief Commissioner Steve Kent announced a fully-funded one million dollar fund earmarked to further the organization's goal to help develop Canadian youth through its programs of leadership, fun, healthy active living and adventure.
"Nearly 100,000 Canadian youth are members of Scouts Canada because they have fun in our programs. At the same time they learn citizenship, strong leadership skills, and how to be stewards of the environment," said Kent. "This funding will accelerate our growth and enable even more young Canadian boys and girls to benefit from the Scouting Movement."
The Chief Commissioner announced that the $1 million fund will be used to support initiatives of a special task force on growth. Details on these initiatives can be found at www.scoutingnow.org.
Scouts Canada's programs have touched the lives of 18 million Canadians over the past 100 years. The values taught through its programs are ingrained in Canadian society, and have contributed to the development of some our most noted citizens including Astronaut Steve MacLean, News Anchors Peter Mansbridge and Kevin Newman, and Prime Ministers Stephen Harper, Brian Mulroney, and Pierre Trudeau to name a few.
"Values like doing your best, making the world a better place, and helping others are timeless," added Mr. Kent, "and programs that ingrain good citizenship, opportunities to develop leadership, and to be prepared for the challenges of life are vital for Canadian youth. Yet opportunities to do these things are hard for parents to find."
Scouts Canada delivers this in fun filled and adventure based programs open to all Canadian youth from every background. Programs like "leave no trace camping" help foster and promote environmental stewardship, leadership, and healthy active living. Scouts Canada members volunteer thousands of community service hours across the country, helping prepare families for emergencies, learn first aid and life saving skills, and live a mission to leave the world a better place -- all of which are critical success factors for Canada's future leaders.
For more than 100 years Scouts Canada has developed and changed to meet the needs of Canadian society and Canadian youth and is as relevant today as it has been in the past.
Scouts Canada, the country's leading youth organization, offers fun and exciting outdoor adventure for boys, girls and youth aged 5-26 in communities across Canada. Close to 100,000 young people enjoy Scouts Canada's programs, which are provided by thousands of caring and dedicated volunteers. We are members of the World Organization of Scouts Movement which has grown to 28 million members in 217 countries and territories.
[CNW]
*****************************************************************
CHINA
China, Japan launch dialogue between young business leaders
Beijing Nov. 23 - MR. Li Jianguo, vice chairman and secretary-general of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), met here Monday with a delegation of young business leaders of Japan.
The delegation was visiting China to attend the first China-Japan Youth Business Leader's Forum, which was a cooperative mechanism initiated at the second China-Japan high-level economic dialogue in June this year.
Addressing the opening of the forum, Li said that as two major economies in the world, China and Japan should enhance dialogue and cooperation against the backdrop of uncertain prospect of global economic recovery.
He said the forum provided a new platform for the young business elites of the two nations to communicate and cooperate, and it was also a new attempt for the non-governmental forces to participate in and boost bilateral economic and trade cooperation.
Japanese Ambassador to China Yuji Miyamoto called on the two countries to expand domestic demand and develop their national economy, and cooperate effectively in the fields of energy conservation and environment protection.
The forum, gathering about 60 representatives from both major enterprises, was co-hosted by All-China Youth Federation, Japan Junior Chamber and the Mainichi Daily News of Japan.
[Xinhua]
*****************************************************************
INDIA
Youth seek better treatment, larger role
Pune, Nov. 28 - AIMING at a progressive society and fulfilling the needs and aspirations of the youth in the state, a working draft of a state youth policy' is being prepared. The draft will be presented to the chief minister on the occasion of National Youth Day on January 12 with a demand to declare it the policy of the state.
A team of 100 youth were working for the last seven months on the draft, being prepared by the Yashwantrao Chavan Pratishthan, Mumbai, and the Navmaharashtra Yuva Abhiyan, a department of the Pratisthan.
To come up with suggestions on the issue, several youth organisations held a group discussion at the Pune regional level on Friday. Mathew P L Mattam, CEO of the Centre for Youth Development and Activities said that these suggestions would be included in the final draft of the policy.
Mattam said that Maharashtra does not have a youth policy. "While the youths are nearly 42 per cent of the population in the state, they are not given priority. When we think of youth, we think only about sports. So, we have a sports policy, but not a youth policy.''
There was a need for space for youths, Mattam said. "There are only playgrounds for them. Also, there should be youth participation in local self-government and in Parliament. We want inclusive education for special needs of youths. We do not want youth welfare. What we need is youth development and empowerment."
Nilesh Raut, a member of the Navmaharashtra Yuva Abhiyan, demanded setting up of a state youth commission', having quasi-judicial power. "The commission will be a regulator for the youth policy. It will monitor, review and evaluate the implementation and impact of the policy. It will also issue directives to the concerned ministries and institutions for effective implementation of the youth policy and programmes.
Narendra Sopal, joint director of state sports and youth affairs, who was present at the consultation, said that a draft committee will be formed to look into the draft state youth policy.
Similar consultations are being conducted among several youth organisations in different cities. We want the government to look into the final draft and pass it in six months' time, Mattam said.
Key youth concerns: Education; training and skill development; livelihood; social security; health and lifestyle; environment; recreation and sports; arts and culture; science and technology; citizenship and participation
Prioritisation of youth profiles: Female youth; youth from inaccessible areas; tribal youth; youth from urban slums, pavements, street and homeless youth; youth drop-outs from formal schooling; youth with disabilities; socially stigmatised youth (eg. lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders); youth under difficult circumstances (like trafficking, wards of criminals, adolescents and those in conflict with law).
[The Times of India] |
