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Forum mobilizes youth stakeholders in Basilan

January 10, 2007

Last January 31, 2007, the 1st Youth Empowerment Stakeholders' Forum was held in Isabela City, Basilan.This was done through the initiative of the Nagdilaab Foundation, one of ELSA's local partners, and the Youth Federation, a local youth association in Basilan. The said forum aimed to engage the stakeholders in helping the youth obtain more opportunities for local and overseas employment, build capacities for self-employment, and unlock more resources for educational assistance for those who wish to go back to school. It gathered different stakeholders from all over Mindanao, including representatives from the local government, business owners, the academe, and other institutions.

More than 40 former OSY members of the Youth Federation, 21 of which were ELSA trainees, led the dialogue by presenting their concerns, challenges, and needs as they seek to find a sustainable livelihood. At the end of the forum, much support was received from the stakeholders. Representatives from the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Labor and Employment, and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority discussed with the youth how they can help in facilitating working papers, looking for employers, and improving local and overseas employability. Local businesses and shop owners, finance institutions, and representatives from the Department of Health gave inputs on networking, finding resources to start a small business, and getting the necessary permits and guidelines. Scholarships and getting educational assistance were discussed with the Department of Education district supervisors and representatives from schools like the Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Western Mindanao State University, and Parent Teacher Community Associations in the area. Currently, follow-up meetings are on going with each stakeholder to firm up more plans to support the youth.