An experience-sharing ceremony was held at the State Hall in Mawlamyine for the Mon State youth representatives who attended the 2026 Youth Peace Forum in the morning of February 4. Chairman of the Mon State Youth Affairs Committee, Mon State Chief Minister delivered opening remarks.

Following this, the Chief Minister presented certificates of honor to the Mon State youth delegation. Each of the Mon State youth representatives introduced themselves respectfully. The delegation leader, Professor Dr. Baby Win from Mawlamyine University, presented the experiences from the 2026 Youth Peace Forum journey via a video clip.

Subsequently, three youth representatives who attended the Youth Peace Forum presented the forum declaration. The youth representatives expressed their gratitude, and a traditional Mon dance performance, which had been presented at the Youth Peace Forum, was staged. The Chief Minister warmly greeted them and the attendees of the experience-sharing session.

The youth representatives who attended the Youth Peace Forum held discussions under the themes of the future of education, culture, and the youth sector, the future economy and youth sector, the future of technology and the youth sector and the future of sports, health, and the youth sector in Mon State, it’s learnt.

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Mandalay region youth representatives shared their experience of attending the Youth Peace Forum 2026.

The ceremony took palce at the Yadanabon University Mandalay on Friday, and attended by Chief Minister U Myo Aung, Deputy Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs U Zin Min Htet, the Chief Justice of the Regional High Court, faculty members and invited guests. During the opening remarks, the Chief Minister emphasized that sharing experiences and aspirations with the youth could help foster the development of a vibrant youth society.

He pointed out that developing countries are constantly focusing on creating good societies,  and thus, the country is demanding the knowledgeable and skilled human resources to play a role in nation development endeavours. Furthermore, he noted that through the Q&A session discussion, constructive environment could be fostered, contributing to uncovering practical insights.

After that, the Deputy Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs provided the occurrences regarding with peace, education and job opportunities that discussed by youth representatives during the forum and explained the ongoing and future plans for youth matters. This was followed by screening of a documentary video on Youth Peace Forum 2026 activities. A donation of books to the university’s library was also made during the event.

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An experience-sharing session for Nay Pyi Taw Council youth representatives who attended the Youth Peace Forum 2026 was held at the Zabuthiri Hall of the Nay Pyi Taw Council Office on January 28. Chairman of Nay Pyi Taw Council, U Than Tun Oo, attended and delivered the opening speech.

The ceremony began with attendees saluting the national flag, followed by a video clip titled "Enhancing Youth Participation in Peace Processes."

In his address, Chairman U Than Tun Oo stated that the new ideas and perspectives of today's youth serve as a new source of strength for the journey toward national peace and development, the government organized the Youth Peace Forum to collectively record the voices and aspirations of diverse youth groups from across the country, representatives from Nay Pyi Taw had the chance to participate in meaningful discussions for the nation, and today’s event serves as a platform to share those valuable experiences with fellow students and young people.

Next, Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman U Than Tun Oo presented honorary awards to the Nay Pyi Taw youth representatives. Ten representatives then introduced themselves and provided a briefing on their group discussions at the forum.

The session also included a video clip showcasing the activities of the representatives during the forum, a summary presentation on the key topics discussed at the Youth Peace Forum 2026, a Q&A session where attending students asked questions and discussed various points. And the session concluded with the playing of the song "Youth's Strength, the Country's Value."

In the afternoon, Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman visited Plot No. (8-A) in Wunna Theiddi Ward, Zabuthiri Township. He inspected the construction of four-unit, four-story staff housing projects. These buildings are being constructed using funds from the 2025–2026 fiscal year budgets of the Nay Pyi Taw Development Committee and the Nay Pyi Taw Council. The Chairman provided necessary instructions to ensure the projects meet the required standards, it’s reported.

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The Kayah State Government and the State Youth Affairs Committee organized an experience-sharing and presentation event for youth representatives who attended the Youth Peace Forum-2026 on behalf of the state. The forum was held from January 13 to 15, 2026, at the Myanmar International Convention Centre (1) in Nay Pyi Taw. The sharing event took place on the morning of January 27 at the State Hall in Loikaw City, attended by State Chief Minister U Sein Oo, who delivered an address.

First, students from Loikaw Education Degree College performed the opening song "Youth Strength, Nation's Treasure."

Continuing, the State Chief Minister delivered the opening address, stating that the purpose of holding this event is for the young men and women who represented the state at the Youth Peace Forum-2026 to share their good experiences, thereby enabling youth within the state to better understand the peace processes being undertaken by the State and to enhance the capabilities and morale of the youth. He also expressed his hope that the youth would actively participate in national affairs and the building of lasting peace through unity.

Following that, the Minister for Social Affairs of the Kayah State presented the Youth Peace Forum-2026 commemorative emblem to the State Chief Minister.

Subsequently, the State Chief Minister presented honorary cash awards to the youth representative group and the performance group that represented the state at the Youth Peace Forum-2026, which were received by the respective youth representatives.

Afterwards, the State Chief Minister and officials watched and showed support for the screening of the documentary video "Enhancing Youth Participation in Peace and Nation-Building."

Next, an administrator from Loikaw Education Degree College shared the experience of attending the Youth Peace Forum-2026, and a youth representative from Loikaw University read and presented the "Youth Peace Forum-2026 Declaration."

At this experience-sharing and presentation event for youth representatives who represented the state at the Youth Peace Forum-2026, the youth representatives who attended the forum on behalf of the state discussed under relevant topics. Students from basic education and higher education institutions, degree colleges, science and training schools in Loikaw City also engaged in mutual question-and-answer and discussion sessions on topics they wished to learn about, it’s reported.

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Myanma Tourism Bank (MTB) and Yangon Region Young Entrepreneurs Association (YRYEA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop a robust financial and business environment for young entrepreneurs.

They plan to establish a strong financial and business ecosystem for young entrepreneurs, according to MTB.

The partnership between MTB and YRYEA aims to create a solid financial and economic environment for young startup founders. Through this collaboration, they intend to jointly provide networking opportunities, capacity-building training programmes, and knowledge-sharing initiatives for business owners.

The MoU was signed with the further objective of implementing joint projects that will be mutually beneficial for both organizations.

At the ceremony, the agreement was signed by U Win Lwin, Chief Executive Officer of MTB, and U Lwan Ye Thu, Vice President (3) of YRYEA. Daw Chit Su Han, Executive Director of MTB, and Daw Kant Kaw Khin, Joint Secretary (2) of YRYEA, participated as witnesses to the successful signing.

MT/ZN

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Youth delegate groups from regions and states who participated in the Youth Peace Forum 2026, together with administrators and responsible officials, began visiting landmark sites in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning.
First, the youth delegates, administrators and officials visited the Defence Service Museum in Zeyathiri Township. Museum officials welcomed them and explained the exhibition halls, which showcase the histories of kings who founded the First, Second and Third Myanmar Empires, photographic records of Tatmadaw chief, as well as section-by-section displays, dioramas and scale models. They also toured the Defence Services Historical Research Institute exhibition hall, the Directorate of Military Engineers exhibition hall and the Tatmadaw (Air) Museum with keen interest.
Afterwards, the youth delegates toured the water park, enjoyed sightseeing activities and took commemorative photographs.
In the afternoon, the youth delegates arrived at Naypyitaw State Academy, where Pro-Rector Dr Soe Soe Aung and responsible officials welcomed them. At the Function Hall, the academy presented a documentary video explaining the purpose of establishing Naypyitaw State Academy, its student-centred teaching and learning systems based on internationally standardized curricula to nurture the educated youth required for national development, the use of research laboratories, modern practical equipment and technology-based teaching aids, teaching activities conducted by lecturers for students, and the organization of ceremonies and discussion forums.
The youth delegates then toured the Naypyitaw State Academy convocation hall building and other areas of the academy.
Subsequently, they visited Naypyitaw State Polytechnic University, where students performed a dance presentation to the song “Welcome to NSPU” at the university’s multipurpose hall. The university then screened a documentary video, and Rector Dr Soe Lin Aung delivered welcoming remarks to the youth delegates.
Following this, student representatives gave presentations on subject areas on literary and arts associations, the Music Club, Chess Club and Football Club, as well as the university’s master plan and projects. The youth delegates then toured the Naypyitaw State Polytechnic University campus.
In the evening, the youth delegates visited the Uttarathiri Ocean Centre and purchased commemorative souvenirs. — MNA/KZL

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The third day of Youth Peace Forum 2026 continued at MICC (1) in Nay Pyi Taw on 15th January. Present at the forum were State Security and Peace Commission member, Chairman of the National Solidarity and Peacemaking Negotiation Committee (NSPNC), Lt-Gen YarPyae, Union Minister for Information U Maung Maung Ohn, Secretary of NSPNC Lt-Gen Min Naing and commission members, Social Affairs Ministers from Regions and States, experts and youth representatives and invited guests.

First, presentations were made on the network-specificed project proposals by the respective youth groups. This was followed by the experts' suggestions, approval process and instant surveys. Then, the awards were presented to those who achieved first, second and third prizes regarding the group discussions on network-specified project proposals as well as the honorary awards to the experts, awardees in painting and cybersecurity contests, coordinators and facilitators. In addition, the certificates of honour were presented to the well-wishers for the forum, composers of the forum theme song and assistance groups.

After that, the Union MInisters and party observed the group discussions on the topics regarding IT, AI, Cyber, Online Security, Social Media and the effective and accurate news information.

Then, the four youth representatives read out the Youth Declaration of the Youth Peace Forum 2026, followed by the recitation of the four oaths of the Youth Peace Forum. Next, Secretary of NSPNC Lt-Gen Min Naing clarified the outcomes of the discussions and the forum was successfully concluded by the remarks of the Union Ministr Lt-Gen Yar Pyae.

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The Youth Peace Forum 2026 continued to be held on January 14 at the Myanmar International Convention Centre (1) in Nay Pyi Taw.

Youth scholars led discussions with participants on a wide range of topics, including identifying recommendations for rehabilitation and reconstruction for those affected by conflicts, exploring ways for youth participation in reducing and ending conflicts, youth perspectives and modern political views, Union spirit based on patriotism, linking peace processes with priority programs in social affairs, education, culture, and sports that align with the interests of today’s youth, employment opportunities and peace, nation-building, creating regional economic development and job opportunities, youth entrepreneurship and technological opportunities, support required for starting youth-led businesses, youth health, psychosocial support, and drug abuse prevention, the impacts of information technology (IT), the proper and effective use of artificial intelligence (AI) in support of peace, nation-building, and social harmony and issues related to cyber affairs, online security, social media, and online networks.

Chairman of the National Solidarity and Peace-making Negotiation Committee, Union Minister Lt-Gen Yar Pyae, and Union Minister for Information U Maung Maung Ohn toured the venue to observe and encourage the participants.

Subsequently, youth delegates were divided into four groups to deliberate and seek solutions on topics such as ending armed conflicts, youth participation in nation-building, rehabilitation, and reconstruction; promotion of social, educational, and cultural development; peaceful coexistence among diverse ethnic groups, cultural exchange and sports, economic development and employment opportunities, entrepreneurship and technology-based businesses, youth health, psychosocial support, and drug abuse prevention, the impact of information technology (IT), establishment of artificial intelligence (AI) systems, cyber issues, online security, social media, and online networks and effective dissemination of accurate information.

In the afternoon session, the findings from the group discussions were compiled and presented. Experts then provided feedback and further suggestions. This was followed by the organization of impromptu competitions, peace-themed painting activities, and a cybersecurity quiz, with prizes awarded to the winners. Participants also worked on developing action plans for group-based networking and collaboration. With the aim of highlighting the importance of youth contributions to peace and social stability, creating employment opportunities for young people, identifying the practical role of youth in the post-election period, and formulating a long-term plan for sustainable peace, national unity, and social development, relevant initiatives will be implemented based on youth recommendations. The Youth Peace Forum 2026 will continue on January 15.

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Under the theme "Promoting Youth Participation in Peace and Nation-Building," the Youth Peace Forum 2026 was held in the Jade Hall of the Myanmar International Convention Center (1) in Nay Pyi Taw on the afternoon of January 13.

First, State Security and Peace Commission member, Chairman of the National Solidarity and Peacemaking Negotiation Committee (NSPNC), Lt-Gen Yar Pyae, addressed the youth attending the Youth Peace Forum 2026. He stated that peace has now become integrated into the practical lives of the youth, their responsibilities, and their aspirations for the future.

The forum's theme is "Promoting Youth Participation in Peace and Nation-Building." He mentioned that youth, as future leaders, need to understand and embrace fundamental peace-minded qualities such as respecting individual language and culture, prioritizing truth and reconciliation without hate speech, and possessing a mindset that views differences as a national strength.

Following this, NSPNC Secretary, Lt-Gen Min Naing, explained the purpose of holding the Youth Peace Forum 2026 and the planned program. Afterwards, individuals who have personally participated in peacebuilding shared their peace experiences. Discussions were held on peace, negotiation, conflict resolution measures, confidence and trust-building measures in peacebuilding, a strategic study of Myanmar's peace process, promoting peaceful societies, and the role of youth.

Subsequently, youth representatives attending the Youth Peace Forum 2026 engaged in discussions regarding the cessation and reduction of armed conflicts. They also conducted instant surveys to gauge youth opinions on peace-related issues.

It is learnt that the forum will take into account the perspectives and recommendations arising from the discussions. Efforts will continue to implement what should be done regarding the role of youth in stopping armed conflicts and promoting peaceful societies. The discussion sessions will continue to be held on January 14.

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Concerted efforts combining the active participation of youth with the experience of elders are essential to advancing national peace and development.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing underscored that for national development to take place, armed conflicts must be halted, and political problems must be resolved through political means.
The Youth Peace Forum 2026 commenced at the Myanmar International Convention Centre I (MICC I) in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning, with an address by Acting President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and State Security and Peace Commission Chairman Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who also chairs the National Solidarity and Peacemaking Central Committee.
The Senior General and party were warmly welcomed by ethnic youths.
Vice-Chairman of the Commission Vice-Senior General Soe Win and eight ethnic youths cut the ribbon to open the forum.
The Senior General inaugurated the Youth Peace Forum 2026 and attached a prayer letter for peace to the peace tree.
The Senior General and the party visited the booths of the exhibition to mark the forum.
At the opening ceremony, all attendees saluted the State flag. Next, a video clip on encouraging youths to join the peace and nation-building endeavours was screened.
On the occasion, the Senior General delivered a speech. He said: If there is a shared commitment to building a Union based on democracy and a federal system, the State has always welcomed and invited armed groups, including the PDF, to return to the legal fold, prioritizing the interests of the Union. We also wish to reiterate that such offers and invitations continue to be extended.

The Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) is what enabled the emergence of a method for resolving internal conflicts through political means rather than military action. However, due to some groups turning a blind eye to the truth, showing insufficient political will to address the root causes of the conflict, and prioritizing only their own organizations and interests, the NCA process did not advance as far as it should have. Therefore, it is also important that the NCA agreements already reached are not merely left at the agreement stage, but are practically applied and implemented.
Peace can only be achieved through meetings, dialogue, and the search for solutions. Therefore, in carrying out peace efforts, rather than merely stating what one wishes to happen, it is necessary to focus on what should happen and work together in a coordinated and united manner on what is feasible.
Differences should be set aside temporarily while dialogue continues, and areas of agreement should be jointly implemented. We wish to emphasize that only by building a practical, successful, and durable peace can the country’s development and the well-being of the people be properly advanced.
It is widely recognized that, as a consequence of armed conflicts, weaknesses have emerged in the education, health, and economic sectors. Therefore, we must continue to make sustained efforts to achieve enduring peace throughout the entire country.
For national development to take place, armed conflicts must be halted, and political problems must be resolved through political means. However, under the current circumstances, armed conflicts continue to escalate, and as a result, peace processes are unable to move forward and face numerous obstacles. Therefore, for the peace process to advance, we must implement a peace process that actively involves the participation of the people.
To ensure peace and development, efforts are being made to ensure that the new generation of youth can enjoy full opportunities and that a system is established in which they can develop freely and securely, with comprehensive initiatives in place to promote all-around youth development.
It is necessary to nurture the new generation of students and young people, who will lead and shape the future of the nation, to develop love for the country and their ethnic heritage, and to become individuals with strong beliefs and good principles. Since the youth will create the future of the State, producing disciplined young people who are well-educated and skilled is, in effect, building the nation’s future.
In the peace sector, which is currently one of the most essential areas for the State, it is the responsibility of young people themselves to actively participate and cooperate, so that they can leave a legacy of peace for future generations.
Youth aged between 15 and 35 make up approximately one-third of the country’s population, accounting for about 33 per cent. Therefore, the correct thinking, feelings, beliefs, and attitudes of young people are essential for the nation, and they constitute a key force in achieving durable and sustainable peace.
In his speech, the Senior General continued that youth are defined as individuals aged between 15 and 35. Those aged 15 to 25 are generally still pursuing their education, while those aged 25 to 35 are mostly working, standing on their own with the knowledge and skills they have acquired. In the future, the role of young people must be strengthened, and they should be able to actively participate in peace processes.
Without formal education, individuals lack skills, and the development of human resources is limited. Deficiency in knowledge also results in fewer good and capable people, which can harm national unity. Therefore, the Union of Myanmar must have an increasing number of educated youth. Accordingly, young people should make it a habit to read and study books continuously to expand their knowledge.
Since Myanmar is organized as a Union, there are also demands for federal rights. However, due to differences across regions, these federal rights are not uniform, and the demands for federal rights are also inconsistent. This situation has been observed to result from a lack of educated individuals. Therefore, it is necessary to prioritize and actively support the education of ethnic communities to ensure their access to quality learning.
Concerted efforts through active movement of youth and the experience of the elders must contribute to peace and the development of the nation. Similarly, those in positions of responsibility should support and uplift the youth. Even during the current elections, young people are participating as Hluttaw representatives. The time has come to provide space for youth in the upcoming political landscape.
If education is promoted in underdeveloped regions and the energy of young people, the experience of elders, and the support provided by the State are combined in implementing initiatives, regional development can be achieved, and this will also contribute to fostering peace within those regions.
National Solidarity and Peacemaking Negotiation Committee Chairman and Union Minister for Border Affairs and for Ethnic Affairs Lt-Gen Yar Pyae presented the gifts to mark the forum to the Senior General.

On behalf of the youths, Maung Htet Myat Thu from the Nay Pyi Taw Council Area and Ma Shoon Myat Moe Kyaw from Mandalay Region spoke words of commemoration.
Artistes from the Fine Arts Department and MRTV, and external artistes performed dance and song entertainment. The Senior General presented the flower basket and K50 million as cash awards to the artistes.
Also, present at the ceremony were Commission member Prime Minister U Nyo Saw, Secretary of the Commission General Ye Win Oo, Union-level dignitaries, Union ministers, members of the NSPNC, the Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman, senior Tatmadaw officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief, deputy ministers, social affairs ministers from regions and states, participants in the peacemaking process, intellectuals and intelligentsia, diplomats, departmental officials, youth delegates, university students and observers.
The forum will be held from 13 to 15 January with the following objectives: to highlight the importance of actions taken by youth in peacemaking and social stability; to provide a constructive environment where all citizens can engage in dialogue and find solutions on relevant issues and attitudes while creating opportunities for young people; to support reciprocal communication and cooperation in peaceful communities; to identify the practical roles of youth in the post-election period; to strengthen youth capabilities in dialogue, participation, and responsible action; and to encourage proposals from youth that can support long-term sustainable peace, national reconciliation, and future social development planning. The proposals emerging from the forum will be collected and compiled into a declaration on youth and peace to contribute to the future nation-building process. — MNA/TTA

Salient points from the speech delivered by the Senior General at the Youth Peace Forum

1. Differences should be set aside temporarily while dialogue continues, and areas of agreement should be jointly implemented.

2. Only by building a practical, successful, and durable peace can the country’s development and the well-being of the people be properly advanced.

3. It is necessary to prioritize and actively support the education of ethnic communities to ensure their access to quality learning.

4. Since the youth will create the future of the State, producing disciplined young people who are well-educated and skilled is, in effect, building the nation’s future.

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