Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has called on government agencies to take immediate action in creating clear, accessible pathways for the country’s youths to benefit from the various programmes already visible to them. The Youth Rally in Port Moresby is just the beginning of a series of youth-focused programme that will roll out across the country in the coming months, ensuring no young Papua New Guinean is left behind. Marape stressed that the future of Papua New Guinea depends on empowering its young people with the tools and opportunities to build prosperous lives. “We have many programmes-in education, skills training, re-education, small business development and labour mobility- but they are not reaching our youths. Government agencies are failing to make these opportunities accessible and understandable to those who need them most”. “This has to change, and it has to change now,” said Marape. The PM highlighted key initiatives such as the Australian Labour Mobility Scheme, and the small and Medium Enterprise (SME) programmes as critical avenues for youths to pursue meaningful careers and livelihoods. However, the PM also pointed out that many youths remain unaware of how to access these programmes due to lack of clarity from government agencies. He said that it is unacceptable that we have these programmes running, but our youths don’t know where to go or how to start. “Our young people are valuable assets to this country, and it is our responsibility as a government to show them the way. We must make the paths clear and visible- whether it's through education, business opportunities or employment abroad-and give them the tools to succeed,” said Marape. The National Youth Mobilization Programme, PM addresses over 10,000 youths at St John Gates Open Stadium in Port Moresby, following the Public Service Dedication ceremony. The rally will run from 1pm to 5pm, a call to action for all youths in the city to come and hear directly from the government about the programmes and opportunities presented to them. The event feature music, entertainment and inspirational speeches, providing a platform for young people to engage with leaders and learn about the paths they can take to secure a brighter future. “I encourage every young man and woman in Port Moresby to come and hear the government. We want to make sure that you know what opportunities available to you and how you can access them. We want to show you that there are clear paths in life that can lead to prosperity, employment and personal growth,” said PM Marape. PM emphasized that as Papua New Guinea prepares for its 50th Independence Anniversary celebration, it must focus in preparing the nation’s youth for the next 50 years. “If our efforts this year do not feature our youths, then we are in vain. The progress of our nation depends on how well we empower our young people. This is not just about celebrating the past 50 years-it is about showing our youths a path forward for the next 50 years. He directed the Office of the Chief Secretary and the entire public service to prioritize youth programmes and ensure that government services are youth focused and accessible. “Our youth must not be left to wander aimlessly. Government agencies must step up and create clear visible pathways for them to access education, employment, entrepreneurship and other opportunities. This is not just a directive-it's a mission that will define the future of Papua New Guinea.” PM stated that his government’s commitment to support young people, calling on public servants, churches and private sector partners to play a role in mobilizing and empowering the nation’s youth. He expressed optimism that this movement will bring a renewed sense of hope and purpose to PNG’s young population. “This is a new dawn for our country’s youth. We want you to know that your government sees you, hears you and is ready to walk with you on your journey. Let us work together to create a Papua New Guinea where every young person has the chance to achieve their dreams and contribute to our nation's prosperity.”