Engaging youths in resource projects gives the young people the opportunity to meaningfully participate in the development progress that will benefit them and their community.
This was the focus of New Porgera Limited (NPL) when it recently announced the launch of the NPL Youth Community Development Committee (Youth CDC).
The Youth CDC is an advisory committee, primarily responsible for proposing and evaluating youth related community development projects to NPL for funding and is made up of a male and female youth representative aged 18 to 24 from each of the four Local Level Governments (Porgera Urban, Porgera Rural, Paiela Hewa, and Maip- Mulitaka) in the Porgera-Paiela District. It also includes 2 youth living with disabilities.
The ten members were officially sworn in, witnessed by their respective LLG representatives, and NPL management, as well as members of the community.
Addressing the occasion, NPL General Manager James McTiernan encouraged the committee members to be good leaders and agents of change for the growing youth population in Porgera-Paiela District.
“Today is an important occasion, as we witness the establishment of the first NPL CDC. Although this Committee is launched in partnership with NPL, its direction will be shaped by you - the youth.”
The youth CDC is not just a committee – it is a platform – a new beginning for the youth of this region to be heard, to be involved, and to be part of building a future that works for youths.
“The Committee’s actions are centered on the values of Faith, Inclusivity, Kindness, Growth, Transparency, and Honesty – values which are critical to bringing positive change in Porgera-Paiela District and will be guided by youth voices and ideas. Whether it's access to education and skills training, small business support, sports and arts, or simply a safe place to gather and express yourselves.”
“We commend the inaugural members of the Youth CDC, and we look forward to working closely with them to bring positive development for Porgera-Paiela District,” he said.
