Prime Minister James Marape has emphasized the critical importance of youth engagement and outlined various programs that his government initiated since taking office in 2019 to involve the nation's youth actively. These were the remarks he made while addressing the National Capital District (NCD) Youth Summit and Expo at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby. Prime Minister Marape commended NCD Governor, Powes Parkop for his significant contributions to addressing youth issues in the NCD, including organizing this event to benefit young people in the city. He also acknowledged the vital role of the United Nations in supporting youth-related initiatives. “Youth are important, and we have been doing work since we arrived in office in 2019. Much of this work is in progress as I speak.” “In the last four years, we have successfully reintegrated over 100, 000 individuals into second chance learning programs.” “Additionally, we have launched SME initiatives that are available for anyone interested in pursuing small and medium enterprises.” Prime Minister Marape highlighted the challenges the nation has faced for many years, particularly due to the Education Reforms of 1991, which, according to him, have led to increased school dropouts without the necessary skills for life. “In 1991, there was an education reform that replaced the old system with Grade 8, Grade 10, and Grade 12 examinations.” “This has resulted in over four million young Papua New Guineans under the age of 50 who have completed various levels of education but lack meaningful engagement in society.” Upon taking office in 2019, Prime Minister Marape recognized the urgency of addressing these challenges and introduced several programs to engage youth. These initiatives include the National Youth and Adult Health Policy, National Education Policy, National Volunteer Service, National SME Policy, National Sports Policy, and National Employment Policy, among others. “While we have numerous policies in place, the key challenge now is to effectively implement these policies to engage our youth. This is a task that requires immediate attention.” “I need practical implementors. The Prime Minister alone cannot do it. Ministries and subnational governments must follow suit.” “More governors and MPs must emulate Governor Parkop's efforts in addressing the needs of our youth.”