"Dialogue and Mutual Understanding"
By Soma Norodom
The 11th Annual International Youth Day was celebrated on the PUC South campus on August 12, 2010. With a crowded auditorium of youths and members of organizations from YRDP, YFP, OYG, KYSD, CVS, PHD, YCC, ICA, CIYA, PF, KCD, SEC, CMYCC, YPSD, FAAC, YPSA, YCDA, PASS, SCY, CDPO, MoEYS, and Paññasastra University, the 3 hour concert was as entertaining as educational.
The theme of this year is "Dialogue and Mutual Understanding". International Youth Day is the celebration of the power of youth, recognizing their achievements, and encouraging them to be active in the development of their society. It is a day of promoting better awareness of World Programme of Action for the youth. The 2007 World Development Report insists on investing in the next generation. The youth, their energy, and their willingness to fight for the future are necessary. Distinguished guests in the Government, Embassies, Donors, Civil Society, and Private Sectors were invited to attend the event.
In his opening speech, Professor Sombo Manara, Director of Khmer Studies center in Paññasastra University of Cambodia, representative of Dr. Kol Pheng, PUC Founding Father, expressed his appreciation to the organizing committee who made this event happen. "Youth have to know about themselves, and understand the society and plan for their future", he continued.
One of the honorary guests at the concert was UNICEF Representative Richard Bridle. His motivational speech in English, and translated by Ly Pichey, in Khmer, stated, "Cambodia's young people are the country's greatest resource." Mr. Bridle ended his powerful speech by speaking a few words in Khmer.
Youth are not the only leaders of tomorrow, but today. In order to build a prosperous and bright future, globally, we must recognize that our youth play an important role. Empowering and inspiring the youth to participate in creating positive social change is the key to growth for their countries, and International Youth Day celebrates their achievements.