The Council of Indigenous Peoples hosted the closing ceremony of the "2023 International Indigenous Youth Forum - Taiwan Training Program" today, December 19th, at the Chateau de Chine Kaohsiung. The ceremony was chaired by Icyang ‧ Parod, the Minister of the Council, who also presented certificates to the young participants from 16 countries and regions, including New Zealand, Palau, the United States, Australia, and the Philippines, among others. Representatives from Taiwan's diplomatic allies also graciously attended the ceremony.
Minister Icyang indicated that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the Council's "International Indigenous Youth Forum." Notably, the first Local Training Program was conducted in Guam in March, followed by the Taiwan Training Program in Kaohsiung this December, which successfully concluded today. The training this year saw the highest participation of countries in its history, while the two sessions of training programs in one year represented a significant milestone over the two decades, demonstrating the Council's commitment and efforts towards the "Youth Empowerment" program.
The Council further noted that since its inception, the youth forum has trained nearly 900 young people. This year’s forum broke new ground with an unprecedented number of participating countries. It hopes to continue working hand in hand with diplomatic allies and international partners to promote the "Youth Empowerment" program. Furthermore, the Council encourages the participants to continue improving their skills, connecting, and collectively contributing to the sustainable development of Austronesian and indigenous peoples worldwide.