49 youths in North Fly join as community development workers under CNSP project

Participants, facilitators, Western Provincial stakeholders, and project staff with Joseph Klapat (seated centre) in a group photo after the workshop. (Image: Supplied)

Forty-nine unemployed youths from 15 council wards in North Fly District have been recruited and trained as Community Development Workers [CDWs] under the Child Nutrition and Social Protection [CNSP] Project.

The week-long workshop, organized by the Department for Community Development and Religion through Project Component Two [CMU 2] in partnership with the Western Provincial Government, ended last Friday.

The training covered Environmental and Social Risks Standards, Ward Mapping, Gender, Child Abuse, Social Safeguarding, and the Code of Conduct.

Coinciding with the workshop, a World Bank mission to the district brought together project managers and officers from the three implementing agencies, the World Bank, and the sub-grantee [World Vision PNG].

CMU 2 Project Manager, Joseph Klapat, congratulated the trainees for completing the workshop and signing the Code of Conduct.

“We’re preparing the next generation for the next 50 years. North and South Fly Districts are fortunate to be part of this government initiative,” Mr. Klapat said.

He added that over 1,000 beneficiaries had already been registered in both districts earlier this year, with World Vision currently registering more in Ningerum LLG.

“With your support, we expect to reach more pregnant women, lactating mothers, and caregivers of children under five.

“Following this year’s mid-term review, CDWs’ monthly allowances will increase from K400 to K600, and beneficiary monthly grants will rise from K30 to K60. The eligible age range for children will also expand from under 2 years to under 5 years starting in 2026,” he announced.

Acting Provincial Community Development Advisor, Marilla Hesaboda, thanked the facilitators, Project’s Gender and Social Risks Specialist Serah Chapau, and Mr. Klapat for engaging local youths and supporting vulnerable mothers and children affected by malnutrition.

She said this government initiative is the first of its kind and provides employment for youths.

The CDWs, who signed one-year contracts with CMU 2, expressed their gratitude for the opportunity.

Including the existing 16 CDWs in South Fly, a total of 65 CDWS are now recruited under CMU 2.

They are currently undergoing a Management Information Systems [MIS] training for beneficiary registration.