The Council of Indigenous Peoples held the opening ceremony of the "2023 International Indigenous Youth Forum - Taiwan Training Program" today, December 15th, at the Chateau de Chine Kaohsiung. The event was chaired by Calivat‧Gadu, the Deputy Minister of the Council, with representatives from Taiwan's diplomatic allies in attendance.
Deputy Minister Calivat ‧ Gadu stated that the "International Indigenous Youth Forum" has been running for 20 years. In March of this year, the Council conducted its first Local Training Program in Guam, marking a new milestone in the 20-year plan. To continue and fulfill the vital mission and goals of indigenous youth training, the Council is proceeding with the Taiwan Training Program. This encompasses a two-day tribal visit and learning session in Namasia District, Kaohsiung, to the Kanakanavu community. The aim is to encourage the youth to exchange and learn from the tribal members, discuss issues, and strategize solutions. This deeply reflects the Council's respect for and emphasis on Taiwan's indigenous cultures and issues.
The Council noted that this year’s forum has invited young people from diplomatic allies, with participation from countries surpassing previous years. This includes 8 members (Taiwan, Palau, Nauru, Tuvalu, the Marshall Islands, the Philippines, Hawaii, New Zealand) of the "Austronesian Forum", 1 observer (Belize), and participants from Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Guatemala, Eswatini, Australia, Canada, and the United States, totaling 40 youths from 16 countries and regions. This showcases the openness and inclusivity of the Youth Forum.
Deputy Minister Calivat‧Gadu further explained that over the past 20 years, the Council has trained over 800 youths, witnessing their growth and progress. He emphasized the Council’s commitment to continuing the Indigenous Youth Forum and collaborating with international partners to nurture young talent. He also encouraged the participants to learn diligently, display their talents, and aspire to be the driving force for the development of their communities and countries.