Learning Experience for Youth
The Provincial Youth Debate is an annual learning experience for secondary school and vocational students. Under the guidance of volunteers from the National Youth Council, young people work on a vision for the future. They also reflect on problems and come up with solutions. This time, the students focused on energy saving by companies, transport poverty (too little access to transport that takes you where you need to be), and the construction of starter homes. Together with civil servants who work daily on these themes.
Expressing and Defending Opinions
Daniël Wigboldus, Kings Commissioner, opened the debate afternoon. He told the young people how important it is for them to express their opinions, concerns, and ideas. Many of the decisions made by the Provincial Council concern the future of new generations. They did express themselves. In various rounds, they presented their proposals to council members Floor de Man, Koos de Looff, and Judith Tenbusch. Strong arguments flew through the council chamber, and the young people convincingly answered the critical questions.
‘Are you sometimes at odds with your own party?’
After the debate rounds, it was time to switch roles. The young people asked the council members curious and sometimes sharp questions. From biggest hobbies to political ambitions, everything was covered. And yes, the council members do not always agree on all points with their own party. They still have to defend those positions. That is politics too.
