THE United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) launched Thursday the Cohort Study of 10-year-old Filipinos, which will run in the country until 2030, in a bid to put a “human face” to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development of the UN.
In a formal launch ceremony in Quezon City, the UNFPA said it will be embarking on a study involving 5,000 10-year-old Filipino boys and girls starting this year.
“The study aims to help governments and partners monitor the impact and quality of today’s policies and actions to support, invest in and empower youth, and to provide quality data and insights to help develop sound future policies and actions for the youth,” said the UNFPA.
In the said study, the 10-year-old Filipino youths will be observed of changes they go through, the opportunities and challenges they face, as well as the kinds of choices they make.
The information on their profiles, characteristics, vulnerabilities, and needs will be collected through household and community surveys, focus group discussions, and case studies.
“Adolescents are a key asset and resource with the potential to contribute to the development of communities and nations. Investing in and harnessing their potential will make an unmatched contribution toward addressing inequalities and ensuring sustainable development,” said the UNFPA.
Aside from the UNFPA, also involved in the study are the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), and the Australian government.
Philippine government agencies involved are the National Economic and Development Authority, National Youth Commission, Philippine Statistics Authority, Department of Health, Department of Education, and Department of Social Welfare and Development. (HDT/Sunnex)