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In this study, the researcher was looking for a definition of the concept of 'empowerment' and how it was embedded in youth development programs that attempt to raise the self-esteem of marginalized young people and empower them to lead productive lives. Issues facing young people were identified as limited access to education and inadequate employment opportunities that frequently lead to crime, violence, substance abuse and high-risk behaviour. In addition to reviewing relevant literature, a case study was made of The Voice Incorporated organization. This organization was established by students at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) as a way for students to look within themselves to discover their unique personalities and unleash the gifts and potential that lies dormant within them. While the term 'empowerment' was not used in formulation of The Voice programs, this research highlights 'empowerment' as their core function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Positive change is an important indicator in the progress of societies. Following the recommendations of the 1993 World Summit on Medical Education for producing medical doctors to take on the challenges of the 21st century, medical schools around the world have been restructuring and reforming their curriculum. Following international trends in medical education the traditional Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) was restructured in 1998 to a problem based learning (PBL) curriculum. The reform was successfully implemented in all the undergraduate years in three years (1999-2001). An important factor that contributed to the successful implementation was the support of the staff and students. The communication of the reform to staff and students played a significant role to ensure this. This paper will discuss how this was achieved among students at UPNG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]