Youths to have say in decisions

 By LAZARUS BIRA

A PROGRAMME  under the open parliament project gives an opportunity to young people to have their say in decision-making, an official says.

Transparency International (PNG) open parliament project manager John Varey said it was a significant programme for a country with a growing young population.

“They (young people) need to be given an opportunity to have a say in the decision making process,” he said.

“This programme will provide a mechanism to develop, train and groom young leaders for today and the future. It gives space for young people to voice their concerns to their politicians.

“It gives opportunities for aspiring politicians to develop leadership skills and provide an opportunity for young people to learn about government and politics.

“It encourages young people to know each other and more importantly establish friends and network.

“Broadly, it will educate and promote parliamentary democracy and governance, discuss national issues, identify ways to address pressing issues affecting PNG.”

Varey said the People’s Progress Party, under Ben Micah, initiated the idea of having a youth wing in the party.

He said Micah, a former National Student Union president, saw the potential in what youths could do to contribute to nation building. 

“There will be a meeting on the Oct 12 to finalise and provide a way forward to establish Young PPP Wing,” Varey said.