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Youth unemployment and social harmony concerns in Solomon Islands talks

28 October 2006

Youth unemployment and social harmony - major concerns of civil society and youth leaders in Solomon Islands.

Economic development, cultural sensitivity and ethnic harmony were issues that dominated talks between Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon and more than a dozen civil society representatives in Honiara, Solomon Islands, on 28 October 2006.

Mr McKinnon, who is in Solomon Islands on a five-day visit, spent his third day hearing the views and concerns of community and youth leaders as well as representatives of non-governmental organisations.

Unemployment, particularly among young Solomon Islanders, was an area of concern for the civil society members. They said gainful employment was needed for Solomon Islanders that would curb frustrations and restlessness among young jobless people. The civil society representatives highlighted the need for vocational training as well as academic opportunities for young people to enable them to develop useful skills for employment or enterprise development.

These demands were later echoed at a separate meeting with Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP) representatives who expressed concern over the rate of school dropouts among Solomon Islanders. They said strengthening family relationships could help address this issue.

The Secretary-General stressed the importance of building partnership networks among young people in the Pacific to exchange ideas and experiences that will address challenges common to the region, and which will enrich their lives. He said the CYP is an avenue to build friendships, expand minds and open up opportunities for advancement.

“Working with other people is an important skill and a challenge,” stated Mr McKinnon. “You’ll learn much from each other and be able to build on the knowledge and perspectives through interaction with other young people.”

The Secretary-General said that people are the greatest resource of a country, and young people in the Commonwealth Pacific region can be building blocks for social and economic growth through their youthful enthusiasm and energy.