Youth Congress passes landmark bill for cultural education

In a significant move to preserve cultural heritage, the Youth Congress has passed Bill 190, which mandates the teaching of Chamorro and Carolinian languages in all public schools across the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). The bill, introduced by Senator Yumo, aims to ensure that students in elementary, middle, and high schools receive at least one full year of instruction in these indigenous languages.

During the session, Senator Yumo emphasized the importance of cultural education, stating that it plays a crucial role in fostering pride and a strong sense of identity among the youth. He highlighted that nearly 50 years ago, the founding fathers recognized the need to keep indigenous languages and cultures alive through education, and this bill is a step towards fulfilling that vision.

The bill received unanimous support from the eight members present, reflecting a collective commitment to cultural preservation and empowerment through education. With the passage of Youth Congress Bill 190, the Youth Congress has taken a decisive action towards enriching the educational landscape and promoting the heritage of the CNMI. The session concluded with the acknowledgment of the bill's significance and the commitment to further discussions on miscellaneous business.