By JOHN FRED
YOUTHS have expressed their views on the challenges facing Papua New Guinea during the the Kectil PNG Conference held in Port Moresby last week.
The conference, which hosted 180 participants, provided a platform for young people to discuss pressing issues and potential solutions.
One participant, Mr. Manau John, a second-year student at the University of Papua New Guinea, shared his thoughts on the hardships the country is currently facing and how the youth can be agents of change.
“During the conference, we extensively discussed the challenges that developing countries face today. One key point that emerged was the issue of poverty alleviation. Many developing nations, including Papua New Guinea, struggle with extreme poverty and income inequality, which hinders overall progress and growth,” Mr. John said.
“We also learned about the urgent need to improve access to quality education and healthcare. The lack of basic infrastructure, such as reliable transportation networks, and the lifestyle of people in different communities were identified as significant challenges hindering economic development.
However, as youth, we can advocate for government transparency, better healthcare facilities, improved education systems, and sustainable economic development. Through active participation in politics, community initiatives, and civil society organizations, we can drive positive change. I’m proud to say that Kectil PNG is on a mission to bring positive changes here in Papua New Guinea.”
Another youth, Mahlone Parisa, who travelled from Eastern Highlands Province, also shared his views during the conference. A graduate of the University of Goroka, Mahlone emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in the country.
Alex Kis, a second-year Political Science student at UPNG, echoed similar sentiments, focusing on the issue of corruption.
“Being in the right mental state and having the right connections is essential for building a strong and stable foundation,” Kis said.
“We may appear fine on the outside, but if we are disqualified within, we cannot address the looming socio-economic issues effectively. However, we can tackle these smaller issues within our reach.”
Participants in the Kectil Program received mentorship, training, and resources to develop their leadership skills, enhance their knowledge, and expand their networks. The program focuses on fostering global citizenship, innovation, and collaboration among young people who might not otherwise have access to such opportunities.
Through various initiatives, workshops, and projects, the Kectil Program aims to inspire and empower a new generation of leaders dedicated to making a difference in their communities and advancing social progress.
The program has had a positive impact on the lives of many young leaders worldwide, helping them realize their potential and contribute to building a better future for themselves and others.
A total of 180 youths from Papua New Guinea had the privilege to attend the first-ever Kectil Conference in the country, organized by the Kectil PNG Team. Out of these 180 participants, 12 youths travelled to Port Moresby from different provinces, with all their logistics and accommodation fully funded by the organization.
The organization was established in February this year under the leadership of Ms. Remain Vincent as president and Ms. Natalie Hungure as vice president.
Speaking on behalf of the Kectil PNG members, Ms Natalie Hungure thanked the organizing committee for making the event possible.
“This year is our first year here in PNG, and organizing such a milestone event just six months after the establishment of the organization is a sign of promising things ahead,” Hungure said.
