A Tonga Youth Parliament (TYP)will be held from December 10-12, to encourage youth participation in the political process.

On November 7, at the Tonga National Centre, applications were opened to interested youths.

TYP 2019 targets 26 young people who are aspiring leaders, enthusiastic about contributing their perspectives on matters they feel are important.

All male and female applicants have equal opportunities to take part, with applications closing on November 25.

The theme for this year is “Our Parliament, Bringing Parliament to You”.

Speaker of Parliament, Lord Fakafanua in opening the applications, said the Legislative Assembly’s was commited to youth empowerment, leadership, education and providing a unique platform where the voices of Tonga’s youth and young people could be heard.

“I am enthusiastic about the prospects of this event and that its outcomes will have remarkable impacts for Tonga.”

The objectives of Tonga Youth Parliament (TYP 2019) are to encourage and support youth participation in political processes, help youth better understand parliament’s roles, functions, rules and procedures, and encourage young people to take an interest in citizenship activities.

The exercise also creates awareness of youth perspectives on matters of national interests and the problems they face, and to empower youth in leadership and decision-making.

This year’s event is planned, managed and run by the youth themselves with the support and supervision of the Tonga Legislative Assembly Office.

A TYP 2019 Steering Committee will finalise the 26 participants.

The first Tonga Youth Parliament was held in 2002.