Beginning with an uplifting speech from UN resident representative, Renaud Meyer, talked about the current situation of Nepal and the role this event could play by bringing together a youth alliance to help decide on the positive steps Nepal, as a nation, should take.Moderated by the Speaker, Dinesh Thapa, Vice President of Cheers Nepal, the event brought together youth from diverse groups who debated on two national issues—federalism, and the quota system.
Debate on federalism brought up arguments that included the creation of states based on ethnicity, whether democracy for Nepal is the key or whether the nation should be administered as it is with the five development regions and 75 districts framework. The quota system debate as well brought intriguing arguments on whether or not it hinders the development of those occupying the reservation by compelling them to give up their competitive edge.
The event provided a platform for young people to share their opinion and express their voices. One of the participants, Kushal Darji wrote on the feedback form: "I learnt to think globally and act locally. The Mock Youth Parliament is a great opportunity for youth to learn and I hope Cheers Nepal continues organizing events like these in future."
Another participant, Monalisa Biswakarma wrote about the changes the program brought in her: "I did not hesitate while presenting my arguments and this motivational event helped develop my confidence in facing mass."
The three-hour long intellectual youth gathering was designed to be a precursor to larger projects to be organized by Cheers Nepal where Nepali youth from diverse ethnic, cultural and geophysical backgrounds will be provided with a platform to share their ideas, innovation and actions.
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