Minister Hosts Youth Conference On Democracy In Action

October 18, 2007

Education, Citizenship and Youth Minister Peter Bjornson is welcoming 100 young people from across Manitoba to the annual Youth Citizenship Conference and Town Hall in Winnipeg on Nov. 1 and 2.

“This two-day event will focus on the democratic process, civic responsibility and teaching young Manitobans the value of becoming involved in issues that matter to them and their communities,” Bjornson said. “Good citizenship is a concept embraced by our youth and this annual conference gives them a chance to network, share knowledge and learn new leadership skills.”A key component of the two-day event is the town hall meeting with cabinet ministers on Nov. 2. Five or more ministers will listen to concerns, share experiences and priorities, and ask for advice on matters of interest to today’s youth. The minister noted all conference spaces have been filled, reflecting a strong interest in provincial matters from Manitoba young people.

“We are giving students and young adults a voice in provincial governance and inviting discussion that will result in positive change,” Bjornson said. “Their input on issues and youth priorities will help us shape policy decisions that will impact them and their peers for many years to come.”

Citizenship and democracy are core concepts in Manitoba’s social studies curriculum. Topics studied include civic, environmental, social justice and human rights issues at the local, national and global level.

To date, the Manitoba government has held four citizenship conferences and nine youth town hall meetings with ministers across the province. The province also created a youth advisory council and established the MB4Youth division within Manitoba Education, Citizenship and Youth to better serve young people.

More information is available on the provincial website at www.edu.gov.mb.ca/mb4youthdivision.

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