MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Billson
Young people in Solomon Islands will have a greater role in community affairs as a result of a $5 million program of NGO Cooperation Agreements, the Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Mr Bruce Billson, said today on International Youth Day.
'After years of civil unrest, Australia is helping to create a brighter future for young people in Solomon Islands, who make up 75 per cent of the population of 500,000,' Mr Billson said.
'Under a new aid cooperation agreement, a number of Australian and Solomon Islands NGOs are working together in areas that support a more viable and prosperous economic future and create a stronger civil society.
'With the help of these organisations, young people will have opportunities for better life choices through non-formal education programs. Training will be available in areas such as income generation, adolescent reproductive health, HIV/AIDS and substance abuse. Programs will also focus on peace-building activities including conflict resolution, domestic violence and leadership development,' Mr Billson said.
'Young people in all provinces will be able to undertake vocational training and be given the skills to build a better future for themselves and take part in village political, social and economic decision-making, especially in relation to community planning and development.
'The future of any country depends on its young people and it is critical in Solomon Islands that youth are part of the rebuilding process,' Mr Billson said.
The Australian Non-Government Organisations receiving funding under the agreement are the Anglican Board of Missions, Adventist Development and Relief Agency, Australian Foundation for the Peoples of Asia and the Pacific, Caritas Australia, International Women's Development Agency, Marist Mission Centre and Save the Children Australia.
Media inquiries:
Shane Fairlie (Mr Billson's office) 02 6277 4879 or 0408 680 442
Jo Elsom (AusAID) 02 6206 4960 or 0412 804 489