Negros youth convergence highlights media literacy, environment

The Hope Builders Organization Negros Island Inc. (HBONI), in partnership with City Mall Kabankalan and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-PENRO) Negros Occidental, held its first Negrense Youth Convergence on Aug. 18, 2024.

The event, which coincided with the International Youth Day celebration, focused on media literacy, agriculture, and environmental sustainability, drawing more than 60 participants from various youth organizations across Negros Occidental.

Under the theme “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” the event aimed to engage the youth in addressing key issues related to digital media and its role in fostering sustainable development.

One of the event’s key discussions centered on environmental challenges, with Ma. Theresa Robles-Pialago, Information Officer for DENR-PENRO Negros Occidental, emphasizing the youth’s vital role in tackling environmental issues.

“The youth play a crucial part in addressing environmental problems and adapting to the challenges we face,” she said.

In addition to environmental concerns, the convergence provided a platform for young participants to express their views on the significance of agriculture and media literacy in shaping sustainable futures.

Organizers said the event was designed to amplify youth voices on pressing global issues while encouraging proactive participation in sustainable development.

The collaboration between HBONI, local government agencies, and the private sector underscores the growing commitment to empowering the youth in Negros through education and environmental awareness. (DENR-6)