Eastern Highlands Province has become the first in the Highlands Region—and the eighth nationwide—to complete the National Youth Engagement Strategy (NYES) 2025–2029 Socialization Program, the National Youth Development Authority (NYDA) announced today.

Held in Goroka from 3–5 June, the three-day program brought together government officials, community and church leaders, youth representatives, and development stakeholders to consult on the NYES framework, validate provincial and district implementation plans, and build capacity for youth engagement.

Kainantu District was identified as the province’s Pilot District for NYES rollout.

Provincial Administrator Mr. Allen Los reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to actively engaging youth in development initiatives, while practical training on the NYES Online Youth Registration System Prepared Community Development Officers for on-the-ground implementation.

The program concluded with formal signings of the Eastern Highlands Provincial Joint Inception Implementation Plan and Kainantu District Collaboration Framework, alongside the official launch of the online youth registration system in Kainantu District.

The program also showed strong alignment with the Saemaul Undong community development model, which emphasizes collaborative initiatives in agriculture, entrepreneurship, skills development, and ward-level economic growth.

Stakeholders noted that NYES will strengthen youth participation in these local development efforts.

With Eastern Highlands’ completion, eight provinces have now finalized NYES socialization programs, and the NYDA continues planning for further provincial rollouts.

The National Youth Engagement Strategy 2025–2029 provides a national framework for youth development, civic participation, skills training, and livelihood creation across Papua New Guinea, implemented in partnership with government, civil society, and community organizations.