The Asia-Pacific Regional Youth Leadership Training was conducted from 24-27 June 2024, hosted by the Bangladesh Scouts. The training supported by the World Scout Grand was held in the National Scout Training Center in Mouchak, Gazipur, Bangladesh.
The training was executed by the planning team which consisted of the Asia-Pacific Regional Youth Representatives 2022-2025, staff of the Asia-Pacific Regional Support Centre and the Resource Speakers of the event. It gathers 49 participants from 17 National Scout Organisations, with an objective to demonstrate adaptable leadership abilities, develop a unique leadership style fostering leadership in Scouting and communities, and to enhance understanding of the core components of leadership in Scouting and expand networking opportunities in the Asia-Pacific area.
The opening ceremony was officiated by Mohammad Abul Kalam Azad, President of Bangladesh Scouts. In his message, he emphasized that youth leadership is a continuous journey nurtured throughout the Scouting experience. Mohammad Rafiqul Islam Khan, Member of the APR Scout Committee, echoed this sentiment during the ceremony, stating that Scouting empowers young people to be active participants, not just beneficiaries. Mr Rafiqul further stressed the importance of youth involvement in decision-making processes at all levels of National Scout Organizations (NSOs). The course director of the YLTC, Dianne Eden I. Villasis, highlighted this opportunity for participants to learn valuable skills, knowledge, or values that will contribute to their personal development and foster social awareness not just within Scouting but also within their communities.
The YLTC offered a comprehensive approach, including eight (8) e-learning modules and 21 interactive sessions on topics like foundational knowledge of the World Scout Organization (WOSM) and the Asia-Pacific Region (APR), as well as personal values development. Discussions centered on current issues relevant to young people within National Scout Organizations (NSOs).
Moreover, the sessions were outlined following the Youth Leadership Training Guide, recently published by WOSM and part of the Youth Leadership in Decision Making Collection. This ensures that participants of the YLTC develop specific competencies that will prepare them to be part of decision-making structures within their NSO, from the local to the national level, as well as to participate at any level of World Scouting.
Beyond the intensive sessions, the training fostered teamwork and cultural exchange through evening activities like movie nights, campfires, gaming nights, and an international night where participants showcased their cultures through booths and performances. The program also included an educational tour to the Walton Factory.
One of the most significant aspects of the YLTC was the recommendation session, where participants, through a committee, had the opportunity to propose improvements to the program's curriculum, activities, or other aspects. This valuable feedback ensures the YLTC continues to evolve and meet the needs of future participants.
The YLTC marked a significant step forward for youth in the Asia-Pacific Region. It not only aimed to engage, empower, and involve young people in Scouting activities but also signalled a shift towards youth leadership among the young people. Beyond the course content, the program fostered leadership anchored in friendship and strong network connections, further strengthening the young people of the Asia-Pacific Region.
Contributed by Dianne Eden I. Villasis