HYC President Harry James Olikwailafa, a young youth advocator for youths in Honiara City

HONIARA Youth Council President (HYC), Harry James Olikwailafa appreciates productive contribution of youths in a one-day Honiara Youth Forum held on Wednesday January 18.

President Olikwailafa highlighted the discussion has been a friendly approach and worth youth inclusive participation which young people have the opportunity to debate on issues of their concerns in the new framework strategy and the youth policy.

Meanwhile, Youth Stakeholders and Youth Ministry have had discussions based on policy framework, National Youth Policy and National Youth Employment strategy.

“This forum avail opportunity to young people in Honiara to give their inputs to shape developing the policy with respective leaders of youth organisation in the country really elaborate this document, it’s important for contribution of youths, and its benefits,” Olikwailafa said.

President Olikwailafa said new thing about the youth forum each province has its own forum, and Honiara has started theirs.

“It really different as from my experience I never part of such forum where it absolutely connects national documents with young people’s input.

“One interesting thing inside the policy is communication strategy, a strategy young people looking for, which is important is important to help them engage and aware of the documents as well,” Olikwailafa said.

Moreover, Olikwailafa calls youth stakeholders and partners in Solomons to set new approaches, and work professionally with young people.

“Its 2017 there is a need to embrace new direction to work with youths in Solomon Islands.

“I believe it’s time youth workers, young people and youth organization start to work together, put differences aside, and collectively share resources for better supporting young people,” Olikwailafa said.

Mr Alfred Kiva, Youth Development Officer for Honiara and Renbel applauds the HCC-Youth Division and Oxfam Solomon Islands for taking first step this year for youth programmes in Honiara.

Mr Kiva said as an officer responsible he appreciates the partnerships established, and looks forward to partnering in implementing the new National Youth Policy.