The construction of the $5 million Western Province Youth Centre in Gizo has been completed and the facility is now ready for its official handover later this month.
Speaking to the Solomon Star on Tuesday, Administrator and Youth Desk Division Officer of Western Province under the Western Provincial Government (WPG), Trina Paroi, confirmed that the official opening.
She said the newly completed youth centre is a significant milestone for youth development in Western Province, providing a dedicated space for training programmes, workshops, and other youth-focused activities.
Ms Paroi said the centre is designed to empower young people by equipping them with skills, knowledge, and opportunities to actively participate in social and economic development.
The building features; office spaces available for rent, a youth hub, and indoor sports facilities.
There will be a digital office space for young people, conference rooms for hire, catering spaces, a gym area, and a stage for performances.
Ms Paroi believes the youth centre will create opportunities for young people to discover, develop, and showcase their talents.
“It will also help them to develop physically, socially, emotionally, and cognitively, while experiencing achievement, leadership, enjoyment, friendship, and recognition,” she said.
Many youths in Gizo have been eagerly waiting for such a facility, she said, adding, “the centre comes at a crucial time for youth development in the province.”
Ms Paroi confirmed that the project was made possible through a partnership between the Western Provincial Government (WPG) and the Ministry of Women, Youth, Sports and Children Affairs (MWYSCA).
Stakeholders have welcomed the completion of the project, describing it as a timely and valuable investment in the future of young people in Western Province.
The Western Province Youth Centre is expected to play a key role in nurturing talent, promoting leadership, and supporting positive youth engagement across the province.
Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the official opening, and senior officials from the MWYSCA are expected to travel to Gizo later this month to formally launch the new youth hub.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
