The National Youth Commission (NYC) spearheaded the annual Youth Development Convention and Policy Forum, held at La Union Convention Center from February 10-13, 2025. This momentous event brought together hundreds of young leaders, providing a dynamic platform to converge, share innovative ideas, and engage in meaningful discussions, the convention fostered a rich environment for cross-learning, collaboration, and networking.
During the session, a Zamboangueña and the Sangguniang Kabataan National Representative Carol Julianne “CJ” Dalipe welcomed the participants and highlighted the policy consultation on the essential framework for youth governance. She emphasized that this gathering is not just about discussions but it is about shaping the future of youth governance, policy making, and community development. The said four-day convention featured a series of panel discussions and presentations by esteemed resource speakers and local chief executives, who shared their best practices and benchmarks, providing valuable insights and lessons learned from their respective experiences.
“Our mission in making every dream matter, continues today”
The Ateneo Learning and Teaching Excellence Center (ALTEC) of Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) and UNICEF Philippines partnered with the NYC to promote the Learning to Earning Pathways (LEaP!) Programme. This pioneering initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and employment, empowering young Filipinos to develop in-demand skills, enhance their employability, and unlock their full potential in these emerging industries.
On the second day of the convention, Director Rogin Christ Eribal took the stage to present the LEaP! Programme’s goals and objectives. He emphasized the importance of creating pathways for young people to transition from learning to earning and addresses the challenges faced by youth in accessing education, skills development, and employment opportunities.
The HOWS? of LEaP! Programme: A Digital Learning Platform
The LEaP! Programme features two online learning platforms: Passport to Earning (P2E) and Youth Marketplace Agency (YOMA). These two platforms provide young people aged 15-24 with free, world-class, and job-relevant skills training, positioning them for employment opportunities. Since its launch, they have evolved, refining its implementation approaches and expanding its impact.
A Commitment to Shaping a Brighter Future for Young People
The NYC’s efforts in empowering the youth are truly commendable, demonstrating their commitment to shaping the future leaders of the Philippines. The event was a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of empowering young people to drive positive change. As the Youth Development Convention and Policy Forum came to a close, one thing was clear: the future of the Philippines is bright, and its young leaders are ready to take the LEaP!
