The youths of the Kerema district in the Gulf province now have an office to attend to and address their issues following the opening of the Kerema District Youth Development Council (DYDC) along with six (6) Local Youth Councils. The opening, which took place last week Friday 10th May that culminated a weeklong youth mobilization activity, was a milestone achievement for the youths and the district itself. Officiated by the National Youth Development Authority (NYDA) Director General, Mr. Joe Itaki, the event was witnessed by the Vice Minister for Petroleum and Member (MP) for Kerema, Thomas Opa and Kerema District Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Sarufa Ako. Meanwhile, the youth mobilization activity saw over 70 youths and observers present for the one-week event that was held from 6th-10th of May where youths from the 6 Local Level Governments (LLGs); Central Kerema, East Kerema Rural, Taure-Lakekamu, Kotidanga, Kaintiba and Kerema Urban, gathered for the event. The week-long event was marked by a series of activities, including the opening ceremony, constitution drafting, and elections at both LLG and district levels, culminating in the official launching of the Kerema DYDC. The establishment of the DYDC represents a significant milestone in youth development in the Kerema District, providing a formalized structure for youth engagement and participation in local governance, decision-making processes, and providing a platform for development initiatives at the local level areas. On Friday, these executives were sworn into office by the Senior Provincial Magistrate, Mr. Francis Fingu, who advised the youth leaders to uphold the office they serve for the good of the young people of Kerema. In his closing remarks, the NYDA Director General, Mr. Itaki, emphasized that being a youth leader in the youth council is a volunteer job in their engagements in community service projects and volunteer initiatives that will foster a sense of responsibility and civic engagement among young people. Meanwhile, the newly elected Chairman of the Kerema District Youth Council, Mr. Japhet John, was given the assurance by the Kerema MP and Chairman of the District Development Authority (DDA) Board, Thomas Opa, that he will be given recognition to represent the youths in the Kerema DDA Board. Establishing a youth development council can have a profound impact on a community, providing young people with opportunities for leadership, skills development, and engagement in decision-making processes. Youth Councils serve as catalysts for positive change, empowering young people to become active participants in shaping their communities and driving social progress.