Speaking on behalf of the Lady Mayor of Port Vila at Agathis yesterday during International Youth Day 2025, Anamburu Ward Councillor Anthea Arukole encouraged young people to understand and apply the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in their everyday lives and communities.
The theme for this year’s International Youth Day, “We localise our SDGs,” calls on youths to take these big global goals and turn them into meaningful actions at the local level. Ms Arukole explained that while world leaders agree on these goals during international meetings, the real impact depends on how people bring them into their own communities.
She focused on some key goals that are especially relevant to young people. For example, SDG 4 talks about quality education. While leaders often discuss what happens inside classrooms, Ms Arukole pointed out that education also happens at home, in neighborhoods, churches, communities, and even on the streets. These are the real places where many young people learn today, so it is important to ask what is being taught in these places and how this education prepares them for the future they often talk about.
On the topic of SDG 8, which is about decent work and economic growth, she reminded youths that having a formal job is not the only way to work. Even if there is no official job available, young people can do small but important work like cutting grass, cooking, or cleaning at home. This kind of work is decent and respectable. Economic growth can begin with small steps such as saving VT5 or VT10 regularly. Arukole used the example of mothers who make simboro to sell for VT20, encouraging young people to learn these skills. Selling five simboro can bring in VT100, and saving this money is the first step toward economic growth and building a better future.
She also spoke about SDG 3, which focuses on good health and wellbeing. She acknowledged that life can be hard and eating a balanced diet is not always possible. However, she encouraged young people to take simple steps like planting the top of a cabbage bought from the market at home, helping their families and bringing this goal to life in a practical way.
Finally, Councillor Arukole made a strong call for respect in public spaces, urging young men not to harass girls who walk on the streets. She reminded them that girls have the right to enjoy the streets just as much as anyone else.
Arukole’s message was clear and powerful: real change doesn’t come from big speeches or distant decisions alone. It starts with each young person taking small, positive steps every day—whether at home, in the streets, or within their communities. By living the goals in their own lives, youths can shape a better tomorrow not just for themselves, but for all of Port Vila and beyond. The day was also filled with lots of sport activities, dancing, and singing, including performances by local string bands, creating a lively celebration of youth energy and culture.
SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST
