The FY2027 Draft National Budget submitted by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) to the Legislature proposes a US$1.5 million reduction in funding for the Ministry of Youth and Sports’ (MYS) National Youth Empowerment Programme, raising concerns about the resources available for direct youth development interventions.
According to the draft budget, the programme’s allocation is projected to decline from US$3.5 million in the revised FY2026 budget to US$2 million in FY2027, representing a 42.9 percent reduction.
The programme supports critical youth interventions, including the National Cadet Program, vacation job opportunities, small-scale grants, and other empowerment initiatives designed to create opportunities for young people.
The proposed reduction could constrain the implementation and reach of these interventions, particularly at a time when unemployment, limited economic opportunities, and the demand for youth skills development remain major concerns.
The proposed cut is particularly notable as the Ministry’s overall budget is projected to increase by 89.2 percent, rising from US$9.61 million in FY2026 to US$18.17 million in FY2027.
Despite the substantial increase in the Ministry’s proposed budget, funding for its flagship youth empowerment programme remains insufficient in comparison to the scale of interventions it is expected to support.
The proposed allocation now awaits legislative scrutiny, with lawmakers expected to consider the funding priorities and resources assigned to youth development during the FY2027 budget review.
