Apia, Samoa – The Samoa Youth Dialogue, a vital component of the global Summit of the Future, successfully took place on 27 and 28 August, 2024, at the National University of Samoa. Co-convened by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, the Samoa UN Country Team, and the National University of Samoa, this event brought together young leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss pressing issues affecting Samoan youth and their future.
Under the “Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow” banner, the Samoa Youth Dialogue took inspiration from the recent SIDS Global Children and Youth Action Summit held in Antigua and Barbuda. It focused on the opportunities and challenges facing young people, advocating for their involvement in decision-making processes at all levels.
UN Country Team, Samoa Youth Delegates, Civil society organizations, government officials, and various stakeholders. Photo: Supplied
NUS Vice-Chancellor Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Amosa, alongside the UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Themba Kalua, highlighted the importance of youth engagement in shaping policies that affect their lives. “This dialogue explores themes on Global Challenges such as Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability, emphasizing Samoa’s vulnerabilities as a small island developing state,” said Professor Tuifuisa’a. “The engagement and dynamism of our youth displayed during the Samoa Youth Dialogue confirm their vital role as change-makers,” said the UN Resident Coordinator. “By amplifying their voices, we are committed to ensuring that the interests of young Samoans are reflected in local, national, and global policy discussions.”
Gafa, Iosefa Enari (Young Sefa). Photo: Supplied
The dialogue included insightful panel discussions on Youth Empowerment and Civic Participation, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion, and Digital Transformation and Innovation. Each session aimed to foster collaboration between generations and illuminate the importance of cultural heritage in developing resilient communities.
Youth delegates, civil society organizations, government officials, and various stakeholders committed to enhancing the future of young Samoans were in attendance.
Faatino Utumapu. Photo: Supplied
The second day of the event featured an Intergenerational Dialogue Session, where participants engaged in discussions surrounding Cultural Preservation and Threats to Samoan Youth. This session underscored the significance of preserving Samoan traditions amidst globalization and environmental challenges.
As the dialogue concluded, the participants expressed their commitment to crafting an outcome document called the Pact for the Future. This actionable framework will address current challenges and prepare for future obstacles, benefiting humanity and future generations.
Moemoana Safato’a Schwenke – Miss Samoa and Miss Pacific, Saui’a Dr. Louise Matai’a-Milo, Dean of the Faculty of Arts
(FOA), Tavu’i Dr. Niusila Fa’amanatu Eteuati, Dean of the Faculty of Education (FOE), FOA & FOA Staff. Photo: Supplied
Overall, the Samoa Youth Dialogue exemplifies the collective vision of empowering youth voices, promoting cultural resilience, and ensuring a sustainable future for all.
For more information please contact: Leilani Smith, Marketing and Communications Officer, NUS, Samoa | Tel. +685: 20072 ext. 283, E: [email protected] | www.nus.edu.ws
