Malaita Provincial Government Hosts Youth Training to Address Rising Challenges

Auki, Malaita – May 29, 2025:
The Malaita Provincial Government (MPG), through its Youth Division and in collaboration with the Malaita Provincial Youth Council, hosted a one-day youth training program today in Auki.

The training aimed to engage young people from Auki and its surrounding communities in meaningful discussions and awareness on pressing social issues. Over 50 youths participated in the event, which was held at the Malaita Green House Auki and attended by provincial leaders.

Deputy Premier of Malaita Province, Hon. Randol Sifoni, officially opened the training, accompanied by Minister of Provincial Planning, Hon. George Ganiau. In his keynote address, Hon. Sifoni emphasized the urgent need for proactive leadership to address youth challenges in Malaita, which is the most populous province in the Solomon Islands.

"As the province with the largest youth population, it is high time that we as leaders take meaningful steps to empower our young people and steer them away from unlawful and antisocial behavior," said Hon. Sifoni.

He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that engage youths constructively, encouraging them to take responsibility for their future and contribute positively to their communities.

The event featured several key presentations including:

• Fr. Nickson Atu on Spiritual Mindset
• Leonard Kwai from Auki Correctional Services on "Life in Prison"
• Michael Ramosaea from the Auki Police on Law and Order
• Freda Kofana from the Malaita Women’s Desk on Domestic Violence
• Erick George, Malaita Provincial Secretary, on Youth Entrepreneurship

In his closing remarks, Provincial Secretary Erick George expressed appreciation to the Youth Division and the Malaita Youth Council for organizing the successful event. He encouraged participants to take the information shared seriously and apply it in their lives.

President of the Malaita Provincial Youth Council, Philip Subu, also conveyed his gratitude to the government, noting that this training marked just the beginning of a broader youth engagement strategy for the province.

"We are hopeful and look forward to more youth-focused activities this year," Subu said.

Meanwhile, the training is expected to continue with further sessions involving stakeholders, school teachers, and community leaders tomorrow.