More than 700 youths representing Gizo and Vella La Vella in the Western province converged into Gizo on last Thursday to commemorate the world youth day in style.
The day which was commemorated based on the theme “Youth and Mental Health” was staged at Gizo netball court stadium.
The day was commemorated globally on August 12 but for Western province the program was last week due to administration matters and the province had decided to celebrate the day on Thursday.
Reports reaching the paper said youths from Paeloge, Titiana both in West Gizo and Gizo youths and as far as Vella La Vella youths attended the celebration.
There was a parade that kicked off the event. This was followed by speeches from both the national and provincial government officials. Entertainment was also being staged by various youth groups during the occasion which coloured up the event.
Western provincial health minister and acting minister for youths and children affairs Leong Mamu said this year’s theme is proper as both terms can be seen as identical –youth (being young) which often represents good mental health.
He said the provincial government recognised youths as an integral demographic component of its population and if properly harnessed, they have the potential to be drivers and partners in developing the province.
“In the WPG 3 year policy framework 2014-2017,there is a policy direction set by the province which is linked to objective 2 of the national development strategy under the support for vulnerable groups,” Mr Mamu said.
He added the provincial government has mandated the youth division to oversee and administer the policy direction of the province and its vision.
“The Western provincial government strategy policy also emphasis creating equal opportunities for youths in the province through effective partnership and genuine participation in development initiatives through various youths program with commitments to socio –economic development.”
He also acknowledged the participation of village /church based youths groups which this fulfils one of the outcomes of the national development strategy by encouraging commonalities and churches to be important stakeholders in harnessing the influence that this particular group can have in terms of development,if properly managed.
The provincial health minister also challenged the youths to look after their mental health which is important for their future.
Also present at the occasion were Western provincial chief health inspector, director of youth Edward Anisitolo, the provincial police commander (PPC) John Rove,provincial health director Dr Gregory Jilini and some of the church leaders.
By DENVER NEWTER
