Gov. Lemanu says Youth Council is a way for youth to speak to ASG

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Gov. Lemanu P. S. Mauga is reiterating that the establishment of the Governor’s Youth Council, is to act as a voice for the territory’s youth to the American Samoa Government.

As previously reported by Samoa News the governor established the Council through an Oct. 07 executive order, which sets the membership, as well as its duties and responsibilities. (See Samoa News edition Oct. 11 for details.)

“American Samoa is home to young people who are diligent and passionate about societal issues. With the advancement of technology and networking, we see that our youth have become resourceful and connected; they can navigate and access global information and create opportunities to collectively act on social changes, or improve conditions for themselves and their communities,” the governor said in the statement released yesterday by his office.

“A Youth Council is an effective way to get more youth involved in solving local problems, to actively engage in the community, and to contribute a junior perspective towards policies and public programs, including but not limited to, health, social services, education, recreation, delinquency, foster care, transportation, and job opportunities,” said Lemanu, who was in Samoa this week for the Bi-annual “Atoa o Samoa” executive meeting in Apia, which concluded yesterday.

According to the governor, the Youth Council will be supported by the Department of Youth and Women’s Affairs director, which shall act as a liaison between the Council and other organizations.

Since Samoa News first reported on the Council’s establishment, several in the community — including some lawmakers — are hoping that membership is selected from among the wide-range of youth-sectors in the community, and not just depending on “who you know”.

Some also hope that youth from non-Samoan communities in the territory, such as the Tonga and Asian communities are represented on the Council, ensuring that “all levels” of youth are represented.

No information was available at press time as to whether or not the Governor’s Office will release at a later time, the names of the members to the Council.