Skills Training For Children’s Council Representatives: Amplifying The Voices Of Da Nang’s Youth

Da Nang, December 7 and 14, 2024 – A total of 50 student delegates from 10 newly established commune/ward-level Children’s Councils (CCs) completed an intensive skills training program aimed at enhancing their capacity as representatives. These councils, launched in November 2024 across various districts in Da Nang City, mark a significant step toward empowering young voices.

This training program is part of the Child Friendly City Initiative (CFCI) and the Healthy Cities for Adolescents (HCA-II) project, Phase II (2023-2026). Supported by UNICEF Vietnam and the Da Nang Youth Union, the initiative is designed to equip Children’s Council delegates with the skills necessary to effectively advocate for their peers. The program ensures that the voices of children are meaningfully heard and considered in the development of city policies.

By fostering these essential skills, the training reinforces the commitment to creating a child-friendly Da Nang, where young people play an active role in shaping a more inclusive and responsive city.

Training Content: From Fundamental Skills to In-Depth Practice 

December 7: Youth Council delegates were introduced to and practiced essential skills, including:

• Collecting and processing information
• Expressing opinions effectively
• Management and teamwork techniques

December 14: The delegates continued their training, focusing on:

• Organizing and facilitating Children’s Council meetings
• Simulating real-life council sessions with hands-on guidance from experienced experts.

Outstanding Results: Children as a Bridge Between Community and Policy

The training not only imparted valuable knowledge but also provided a platform for delegates to apply their skills in practical scenarios. Over two days, the Youth Council delegates gained the capacity to:

• Collect opinions from local children.
• Present the needs and aspirations of children to the authorities effectively.

This initiative serves as a crucial stepping stone, ensuring that children’s voices are heard and taken into account during the development of policies that directly impact them.

Join Hands to Amplify Children’s Voices!

This training reaffirms the pivotal role of the Children’s Council in advocating for children’s rights in Da Nang. Let’s support these meaningful initiatives to ensure no child is left behind!