Manama: His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa deputised His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs, to honour the winners of the fifth edition of the King Hamad Award for Youth Empowerment to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, in the presence of a number of Their Excellencies ministers and senior officials.
According to Bahrain News Agency, HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad stated that the award stands as a pioneering international initiative, being the first to focus on empowering youth in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. His Highness noted the support of His Majesty the King for both Bahraini and international youth has established Bahrain as a global model for youth empowerment. He also acknowledged the backing of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for youth initiatives and the development of young cadres through several programmes.
HH Shaikh Nasser highlighted the significant role of youth in achieving sustainable development goals, indicating their ability to transform challenges into opportunities through innovative solutions and initiatives, impacting both local and international communities. He expressed appreciation to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for its strategic partnership, and to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its continued support, emphasizing the integration of national and international efforts in empowering youth.
Manal Fouani, Representative of the UNDP, conveyed the programme's pride in participating in the King Hamad Award ceremony and praised the longstanding partnership with Bahrain. She highlighted the award's role since its inception in 2017 in embodying Bahrain's commitment to youth empowerment and aligning with Sustainable Development Goals, noting the close cooperation with the Ministry of Youth Affairs to enhance the award's global presence.
At the ceremony's conclusion, HH Shaikh Nasser honoured the judging panels and winners, reinforcing the award's role in promoting youth contributions to sustainable development and empowering them to lead positive change.