On July 28th the Mon Youth Forum (MYF), launched  a capacity building training program for Mon Youth in Thaton District,  an area controlled by the New Mon State Party (NMSP).

Approximately 27 trainees are currently attending the program. They will learn about the NMSP, Mon Youth policy and will be trained in specific roles to help build youth capacities, according to Nai Ji Jon a spokesperson for the program.

"There are about 11 topics established in relation to the Mon youth policy. There are currently 27 trainees, but more will be added to the program from the NMSP region," said Nai Ji Jon.

Additional subjects the participants will be exposed to include, youth and education, politics, management, leadership principles, business, gender, human rights, drug control and the environment.   Subject matter will be taught by teachers from all sectors.

Nai Ji Jon said, "the opening date of the course was announced on July 18. But (there were some challenges getting started) , so it took longer to begin than originally planned."

The course will take place over a 3 month period, and district officials and the Mon Youth Forum (MYF) will be responsible for accommodation and meals costs related to the program.

The Mon Youth Conference was held for 3 days last January, where Mon youth policies were approved and a new Mon Youth Meeting Group was reorganized.