Summary: Countries didn’t say anything very groundbreaking or conclusive- (at least in what I heard...) Panelists discussed issues dealing with privatization, the importance of good partnerships, involving governance, and also ***briefly*** touched on the topic of funds. Business and Industry was actually unable to get onto the speakers’ list, so could not get their perspective! The UK Government Delegate thanked the Youth Caucus during an address.

Summarized by Jessica Lin (USA).

Intervention: Thank you Mr. Chairman and distinguished panelists. The youth would like to build upon the comments brought up by Mr. Kituyi and Mr. Smith regarding the initiatives undertaken by UNDP and UNIDO in developing countries.

We recognize that development of technology, increase in productivity, and the creation of strong community-based enterprises and partnerships are crucial to improving such vital issues like education, health, and income- all key steps to poverty eradication. One specific example of a small-scale, but successful project that begins to solve many of these problems are the multifunctional platforms that have been established in 350 Mali villages as part of a UNDP/UNIDO initiative.

More than just a clean energy tool, the multifunctional platform eases the burden on rural woman and youth through the mechanization of tedious agricultural tasks. Women’s average annual incomes have tripled, and they have saved between two and six hours of time per day. The attendance and performance of school age girls has increased since they have not had to stay at home to help their mothers, and men benefit from the use of electricity for hand tools and creation of jobs as operators and repair artisans.

Moreover, the entire community benefits from the introduction of the first electrical light in a dark village. This is just one viable possibility that innovative technology and assistance can affect productivity, enterprises and employment in whole communities in developing countries.

As youth, we are both committed and excited to work together to continue financial and sustainable support for the MFPs and other related projects in other countries and communities around the world. Thank you.

Presented by Jessica Lin (USA) from the Children and Youth chair.