Government outlines expanded role for President’s Youth Advisory Council as $75M allocated in 2026 budget
The government on Monday defended a $75 million allocation for the President’s Youth Advisory Council in the 2026 national budget, outlining ongoing investments in youth development and plans to expand the council’s reach and impact nationwide.
During the consideration of Estimates in the National Assembly, Minister of Governance and Parliamentary Affairs Gail Teixeira explained that the allocation supports stipends, programme activities and initiatives aimed at strengthening the council’s advisory role to the President. She said the body has been focused on institutional building and laying a foundation for broader youth engagement.
Further, Teixeira noted that in 2025, $15.9 million was spent on stipends for the council’s 29 members, each of whom receives $20,000 monthly. She added that travel and accommodation costs for members are covered directly by the programme when required, ensuring full participation in national engagements.
The minister further disclosed that $2.5 million has been set aside to support agriculture-related youth initiatives, alongside grants to schools and operational activities designed to support young people and community programmes.
Looking ahead, Teixeira said 2026 will see the council expanding consultations across the regions, allowing more young people to participate in national discussions and contribute to policy development. She added that public education campaigns will also be rolled out this year to address issues such as vaping and bullying among youth.
While Opposition MP Ganesh Mahipaul raised questions about the absence of a formal performance report and the pace of spending in the previous year, Teixeira stressed that detailed documentation exists on the utilisation of funds and that the council’s work is built around partnerships, volunteerism and capacity building.
The minister also encouraged young people interested in engaging with the President’s Youth Advisory Council to visit the Office of the President or access information through its official website, as the government continues to position youth at the centre of national development.
