By Zoila Palma: The national consultation phase for Belize’s new National Youth Development Policy and Strategy has officially begun, with the first district consultation successfully held in Toledo on May 18 2026.
The Belize Policy Research Institute at UB noted that the session brought together more than 100 participants, including young people, students, parents, teachers, police officers, and other community members.
Participants shared their perspectives on a range of issues affecting young people, including education and practical life skills, sports and talent development, mental health and support services, youth entrepreneurship, access to opportunities, safety, parental and community support, and stronger avenues for youth voice and participation.
The Belize Policy Research Institute is coordinating the preparation of the policy and strategy in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Youth, Sports & Diaspora Relations and the Department of Youth Services, with the support of UNICEF Belize.
The Toledo session forms part of a wider public engagement phase that includes district youth consultations and school-based data collection taking place from May 18–29, 2026, along with a national e-survey for young people ages 18–29, focus groups, and stakeholder interviews.
“Together, these activities will help inform a policy and strategy that reflects the realities, aspirations, and priorities of young people across Belize. Following the Toledo session, school-based data collection and the district youth consultation were also completed in Stann Creek, with approximately 150 participants,” BELPRI noted.
The consultation process now moves to the Cayo District as the national engagement continues.
The post National Youth consultations commence in Toledo with strong community participation appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: The national consultation phase for Belize’s new National Youth Development Policy and Strategy has officially begun, with the first district consultation successfully held in Toledo on May 18 2026. The Belize Policy Research Institute at UB noted that the session brought together more than 100 participants, including young people, students, parents, teachers,
The post National Youth consultations commence in Toledo with strong community participation appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
