Wau-Waria MP Marsh Narewec says the critical issue of youth unemployment is a significant problem for Papua New Guinea. The local MP noted that it is especially troubling for the youth. Narewec pointed out that unemployment creates a disability in society. "If you can't find a job, you can't contribute to the economy," he explained, adding that despite having many potential workers, employment rates remain very low, contributing to the nation’s economic struggles. "We have 18,742 unemployed and unskilled youth between the ages of 15 and 35. This is the size of our problem, and we must find a solution.” He stressed the urgency of addressing this issue before the end of 2023, ahead of the upcoming elections. To combat youth unemployment, his district has initiated a youth empowerment program aimed at addressing the high unemployment rate in his electorate in Wau-Waria. Narewec highlighted that the high unemployment rate is compounded by the lack of skills among youths. Therefore, the district has created a number of training programs to help address the youth unemployment problem in the district. Narewec emphasized the importance of these training programs. "We have established training programs.” “These training programs are essential for equipping our youth with the skills they need to secure employment," he said. On Wednesday, the district witnessed 86 youths from the district graduate from the Kumul Training program in Lae after completing the drivers and operators’ skills training. Among the 86 youths, 85 were male and only one female. The graduates included twelve semi-trailer drivers, nineteen dump truck drivers, seventeen light motor vehicle drivers, seventeen bulldozer operators, twenty-five excavator operators, and six mobile crane operators. Narewec also emphasized the ongoing efforts of the Kumul Training program. "We must ensure it continues effectively.” “This training is vital for our youth, and we must see it through to completion.” Narewec's call to action underscores the pressing need to address youth unemployment and the critical role of training programs in providing young people with the skills necessary for employment.