Youth Development Achievements Spotlighted in Program Mid-term Review Meeting of YMCA Myanmar

Last Updated (Saturday, 01 March 2025 12:41)

The Program Mid-term Review Meeting was successfully held at Myanmar Centre, bringing together key stakeholders to evaluate the progress of youth development initiatives under the Sustainable Development through Strengthening Youth Employment program. Implemented by Myanmar YMCA, this program aims to empower young people by enhancing their socio-economic well-being. Through initiatives such as Youth Camps, Speaker Programs, Youth Learning and Sharing Workshops, Scholarships, and Internship Programs, the project provides critical opportunities for young individuals to develop professional skills and gain hands-on work experience.

The review meeting gathered 42 participants, including the General Secretary, Honourary Treasurer, Youth Department Committee Chairperson, committee members, executive secretaries from Myanmar YMCA, resource persons from training programs, and youth beneficiaries. Discussions focused on evaluating the strengths, weaknesses, outcomes, and recommendations for the programs conducted over the past year.

Key Findings and Observations

The review emphasized the success of the Speaker Program and Youth Camp, both of which fall under the broader “Youth Employment Opportunities for Sustainable Development” initiative. Participants noted that these programs have made a significant impact on youth development, fostering personal growth and career readiness. Additionally, the review highlighted the effectiveness of innovative methods, engaging activities, and dynamic teaching approaches incorporated into the training programs. These elements were recognized as setting Myanmar YMCA’s initiatives apart from similar programs run by other organizations.

Recommendations for Future Growth

Several key recommendations emerged from the discussions:

• Extending the Duration of Training Programs: Some training modules could be expanded to allow for deeper learning and skill-building.
• Increasing Regional Participation: Encouraging youth from other regional YMCAs outside the current project area to take part in programs.
• Developing a Long-Term Strategic Plan: To sustain and expand the impact of these initiatives, a comprehensive strategy should be devised to increase program duration and geographical reach.

Recognizing YMCA’s Youth Development Impact

The review also underscored the growing recognition of Youth Camps and Speaker Programs as a YMCA brand. These initiatives have become well-known among young people as key platforms for skill development, networking, and career-building. With the continued success of these programs, Myanmar YMCA is committed to strengthening its efforts to enhance employment opportunities and sustainable development for youth. The organization looks forward to expanding its reach and further solidifying its role in empowering the next generation.

The “ Sustainable Development through Strengthening youth Employment " project is a joint initiative between Myanmar YMCA and Bread for the World (Germany). Running from September 2023 to February 2026, the project is being implemented in Yangon Region and Ayeyarwady Region, specifically in Pathein and Maubin Townships. Throughout its duration, the initiative aims to equip 900 young people aged 15-35 with essential skills to improve their employment prospects and contribute to long-term sustainable development. As of the current reporting period, the project has successfully provided 847 young individuals (378 males, 458 females, and 11 others) with the necessary competencies to enhance their career opportunities and economic stability.

Myanmar YMCA is committed to empowering youth by designing development programs aligned with Vision 2030. With a strong focus on four key pillars—community well-being, meaningful work, a sustainable planet, and a just world—Myanmar YMCA strives to create impactful opportunities for young people to grow and contribute to society.

Saw Tun Lu

Program Manager

Sustainable Development through Strengthening Youth Employment Program