Virtual Forum, Puntland: The Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Federal Government of Somalia organized a series of events in May 2023, to gather input and ideas from the youth in the country for the
validation and consultation of the new National Youth Policy, 2023-2030. These events were conducted in six locations, with one online gathering in Puntland.

The virtual forum in Puntland was organized by the technical team of the federal Ministry of Youth and Sports in coordination with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Puntland. The forum provided an opportunity for young people in Puntland to share their views, inputs, and recommendations for the new National Youth Policy.

The forum was designed to be interactive, with participants given the chance to speak about their views on youth development in Somalia. Participants in the forum expressed the need for better access to
education and employment opportunities. They emphasized the importance of vocational training, as it would help them to acquire skills necessary for sustainable employment. The participants also expressed the need for affordable healthcare for all young people.

They felt that access to healthcare was a basic right that should be guaranteed by the government.
The youth at the forum discussed the challenges they face in accessing finance for their businesses, which they recognized as a major issue preventing youth entrepreneurship. They emphasized the need for more investment in youth entrepreneurship and support for young people with innovative business ideas.

The virtual forum allowed for young people from every corner of Puntland to participate and engage in the conversation around the National Youth Policy.
Speakers highlighted the need for the government to listen to the opinions and recommendations of young people. This was seen as a key to ensuring that the policy was effective and served the needs of
the youth across Somalia.

The National Youth Policy Validation and Consultation in Puntland was a unique forum that brought together young people from across the region to discuss issues that affect their lives. The virtual forum
provided young people with the opportunity to share their views, inputs, and recommendations with the government and technical teams for the new National Youth Policy.

The forum demonstrated the importance of involving young people in policy development and decision-making processes. It is hoped that the recommendations made by young people in the forum will be
incorporated into the new National Youth Policy. By engaging young people in policy development, the government demonstrated its commitment to youth development and empowerment in Somalia.