New NCOM members called to champion young voices

The Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mrs Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, has urged the newly inducted members of the National Children’s Committee (NCOM) to become strong advocates for their peers by listening to their concerns and ensuring that the voices of children and young people are heard.

Addressing the NCOM Transition and Induction Ceremony 2026 this morning at the Voilà Hotel in Bagatelle, the DPM called on the new members to discharge their responsibilities with seriousness, integrity and compassion as they take up their mandate.

Organised by the National Children’s Council (NCC), the event marked the transition between the outgoing and incoming NCOM members. Shields were presented to the outgoing members in recognition of their commitment and contribution throughout their tenure.

The ceremony was attended by the Chairperson of the NCC, Mr Gilbert Daniel Mervin Louise, as well as other personalities, school representatives, parents and young people.

In her speech, DPM Navarre-Marie underscored the importance of giving children and young people a meaningful voice in decisions and issues that affect their lives, particularly as they navigate challenges ranging from cyberbullying, drugs and violence to social pressure and climate change. She encouraged young people to view leadership as an opportunity to serve others and play an active role in shaping the Mauritius of tomorrow.

The DPM also commended the outgoing members for their contribution during their mandate, notably their engagement on key issues affecting young people, including children’s rights, bullying, synthetic drugs, online safety, social media and leadership.

Mrs Navarre-Marie further encouraged the new members to embrace diversity, work collectively and remain attentive to children and young people whose voices may not always be heard. She reaffirmed Government’s commitment to creating an environment in which every child and young person in Mauritius is respected and protected, their views are considered and their potential is given the opportunity to flourish.

For his part, the Chairperson of the NCC stressed that children are an integral part of the present and that their ideas, talents and perspectives can contribute to positive change. He encouraged the new NCOM members to believe in their abilities, express themselves with confidence and approach their responsibilities with courage and kindness.

Mr Louise also expressed appreciation to the outgoing members for their contribution and thanked parents, educators and school representatives for their continued support.

13 August 2026

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Topics: Youth