PNG reviews National Service Policy amid 66% youth population

Friday, 29 August 2025, 2:18 pm

Deputy Secretary NDPM- Michael Kumung (NBC News)

It's said Papua New Guinea’s "youth bulge" is around 66percent, something the Government must look into and plan for.

It's where a National Compulsory Service Policy comes in, the Department of National Planning and Monitoring taking this policy framework for 2025-2035 to regional consultations this month.

They were in Alotau for the southern region this week.

Consultation Team Leader and Deputy Secretary Policy & Planning Michael Kumung, says studies done with partners such as the National Research Institute/ NRI confirm our country is made up of over 60percent youths, ages determined between 15-35years old.

It's the majority of our population and should be looked at with specifics.

NRI research had estimated the youth population for PNG around the 11million mark, numbers still yet to be verified under recent census records, and it's where a proposal for National Youth Service Corps had initially been suggested.

The regional consultations is engaging with partner stakeholders and feedback, encouraging they must customize programs to suit their situation.

The Policy development framework of the National Compulsory Service initiative hopes to encompass activities that develop young people to feel valued and be a responsible member of your community.

They have completed consultations in Highlands and Momase, Southern this week and will soon head Kokopo for the Islands region.