The National Youth Development Authority (NYDA), in collaboration with SMEC, recently conducted a successful “Youth in MSME Training” program in Ogelbang, Mt Hagen, WHP.
This training program is the culmination of ongoing efforts since 2021 when the Small Medium Enterprise Corporation (SMEC) and the National Youth Development Authority (NYDA) signed an MoU agreement.
The training commenced on Monday, June 26th, and officially concluded on July 4th. A total of 32 youth participants successfully graduated from the program, receiving a certificate in Youth in MSME. The training program is internationally accredited and ILO certified.
The National Youth Development Authority, Small to Medium Enterprise Corporation, and the Mt Hagen City Authority provided crucial support to make this training possible. The partnership established so far has had a significant positive impact on the lives of out-of-school youth in the district.
The Graduation Ceremony was graced by the presence of Mr. Jim Pena, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Mt Hagen City Authority, and Mr. Petrus Ralda, the Managing Director of Small to Medium Enterprise Corporation. Both leaders expressed their appreciation for the partnership approach, which they believe is the ideal method to bring about change in the mindset of young people.
The leaders acknowledged and commended NYDA’s efforts in reaching out to young people, even at the ward level, through the DYDC network. To kickstart the youth in MSME activities, both agencies contributed K10,000 each (totaling K20,000) to the Mt Hagen District Youth Development Council, empowering them to drive the program at the LLG levels.
Mr. Philip Mumuky, the President of the Mt Hagen DYC, expressed gratitude to the National Youth Development Authority for delivering the impactful “Youth in MSME Training.” He recognized this program as the catalyst for securing support from other stakeholders in the province. He also emphasized that NYDA’s presence in the district through this program further highlights the important work of Mt Hagen Central DYDC. Since its establishment in 2021, this program stands as one of the significant activities undertaken by the DYDC, and they are eager to carry it forward.
Under the NYDA/SMEC partnership, there are plans to replicate similar programs in other districts. Empowering youths through the MSME program provides them with the necessary tools and direction to shape their future positively.
NYDA aims to continue nurturing the next generation of aspiring entrepreneurs through such interventions, in collaboration with all stakeholders.
