Central Province has become the first province in the country to establish a Youth Council Development Body, creating a formal structure to support youth development and represent young people at ward, local-level government (LLG), district and provincial levels.

The council’s executives have been elected at provincial, district, and LLG levels. The initiative is intended to give young people a platform to raise concerns, contribute to decision-making, and take part in development programmes across the province.

The Central Provincial Administration’s Community Development Division worked with the National Youth Development Authority (NYDA) to establish the council. The initiative received initial funding from the Governor’s Office through the Public Service Improvement Program (PSIP).

Speaking at the council’s launch in Port Moresby, Central Governor Rufina Peter said the council would provide a structured way to address youth issues, including at ward level.

She said the council’s links across the three levels of government would help ensure young people were represented, and their concerns heard at local, district, provincial and national levels.

“The decisions we make today regarding youth development will shape the future of our province. Young people make up a significant portion of our population. They are our future workforce, future leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, public servants, and community champions,” Governor Peter said.

The council would help advance youth empowerment and encourage young people to participate in development programs throughout the province.

Peter acknowledged the NYDA, Community Development officers, district administrations and other stakeholders for their work in establishing the body.

Central Provincial Administration Community Development adviser Michael Peter thanked the governor for providing funding to extend the initiative to LLGs and districts across the province.

NYDA Director Joe Itaki also commended the governor for supporting the establishment of youth councils at LLG, district and provincial levels.

He said the initiative would help create a stronger pathway for youth development in Central Province.