Manama: Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives, chaired the third Youth Parliament session and the Parliament for Persons with Disabilities session. These sessions were attended by 80 young participants, several ministers, and government representatives. Organized in partnership with the Council's General Secretariat under the 'Parliamentary Bridges' programme, the Bahrain Institute for Political Development's 'Future Bet' programme, and the Bahrain Mobility International Centre, the sessions aimed to foster engagement and participation from youth and persons with disabilities.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Al Musallam emphasized the unwavering support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the guidance of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Their efforts focus on empowering young people and individuals with disabilities through improved education, services, and employment opportunities. Al Musallam also conveyed greetings from His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who is His Majesty the King's Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs and Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports.
The sessions demonstrated the Council's dedication to involving young people and persons with disabilities in parliamentary processes. This initiative was further supported by Mohammed Ibrahim Al Sisi Al Buainain, Secretary General of the Council of Representatives, along with assistance from the General Secretariat and partner organizations.
During the Parliament for Persons with Disabilities, the agenda included discussions on government policies regarding the support and empowerment of persons with disabilities, especially concerning employment. Participants examined current challenges, existing services, and explored policy improvements to boost inclusion and expand job opportunities.
The Youth Parliament session, under the 'Future Bet' simulation, reviewed several committee reports, including amendments to the Civil Service Law and a draft law on cultural activity leave. Discussions also focused on launching a national programme to prepare young people for representing Bahrain internationally, enhancing learning resource centers and public libraries, and creating employment opportunities for top graduates of universities and colleges after they finish relevant training.