Innocent Banda Selected to be a Junior Parliamentarian
Our student beneficiary Innocent, who recently completed his secondary schooling, was chosen to be one of the 192 junior parliamentarians from all over the country covering all the constituencies. Innocent, together with all the other young people were sent to the capital’s parliament in Lilongwe. The aim of this assembly, chaired by the Parliamentarian Speaker, was the government’s wish to give voice to the youth in Malawi.
Innocent was given a chance to speak on one topic that is dear to his heart. His theme was on the lack of youth participation in conserving the environment in the country. He also voiced his concerns on the inability of the government to formulate and enforce laws on environmental conservation and management. Innocent appealed to his fellow attendees to join hands in conserving the environment since it affects all their lives.
Many topics were discussed, including the problem with corruption, nepotism, power shortage, the management of energy and mining. All the conclusions in debate will be submitted by the Speaker to the Social & Community Affairs Committee in the parliament, which then will be reviewed and acted upon.
Innocent said that “it was really a good experience since I have learnt much on becoming a responsible citizen and leader. And I have made a lot of friends with many participants”.
Innocent has obtained top marks in his final year examinations as has applied to study theology in a university awaiting placement.