Two Zambian youth have recently participated at the 7^th Commonwealth Youth Parliament, which has been hosted by the Legislative Assembly of the Northern Territory in Darwin, Australia from 1^st to 5^th November 2015.

During his opening address on Monday 2^nd November 2015, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Acting Secretary General, Mr. Joe Omorodion highlighted that it is imperative to include youths in the promotion of parliamentary democracy and development as the Commonwealth’s population is comprised of the youth.

He also stated that the Commonwealth Youth Parliament is a great opportunity for the youth to be more knowledgeable citizens. He further urged the participants to exchange fully and have robust discussions in the duration of the Youth Parliament.

In sharing his experience during the 7^th Commonwealth Youth Parliament, Mr. Maleya Maleya, one of the Zambian Participants stated that the exposure he has had at the Youth Parliament has increased his knowledge of Parliamentary Practice. He also appealed to the National Assembly of Zambia to undertake robust programmes and campaigns in educating the Zambian Youth on Parliamentary Procedure and equipping them with leadership skills as the youth are today’s and tomorrow’s leaders at different levels.

Ms.Esther Mwenya Chansa, the other Zambian participant said that her exposure to parliamentary practice during the 7th Commonwealth Youth Parliament has deepened her understanding of the Legislation process. She also said that her participation at the Youth Parliament was a great opportunity for her to meet, interact and work with people of diverse nationalities and backgrounds. She added that her experience during the Youth Parliament has made her a strong team player and improved her negotiation and communication skills.

She further urged the Zambian Youth to respond positively to various youth activities that are organised by the National Assembly of Zambia whenever there is a call for youth Participation, stating that participation in locally organised activities creates opportunity for participation at international fora.

The Commonwealth Youth Parliament is one of the core programmes of the CPA and the hosting of the Youth Parliament rotates alphabetically through all the regions of the Commonwealth. Participants of the Commonwealth Youth Parliament have practical experience of parliamentary systems and the proceedings are done under the watch and guidance of experienced parliamentary officials.