FSM Close-Up students set foot at the FSM Capitol

A group consisting of fifty-three Close-Up students from all four states visited Federated States of Micronesia Vice President Yosiwo P. George in the afternoon of May 22^nd at the President’s Conference Room.

The Vice President welcomed the students and spoke about the opportunity they were given to experience the National Government first-hand by interacting with Government leaders. The visit, the Vice President stressed, allows them to gain better understanding of the distinctive roles the executive, legislative and judiciary branches play and how they intricately interact.

Vice President George talked about his background leading up to his current undertaking as the 8^th Vice President. Through engaging discussions, he emphasized the undeniable importance of education and urged the students to pursue higher education to build a promising future. He also added that their professional development will play a critical role on the Nation’s future.

On their part, the students posed some concerns  and asked questions relating to post-2023, an important date for the Compact of Free Association between the FSM and the United States. They also inquired about the current Administration’s view on Chuuk States’ secession interest; solvency of the social security program; and college education financial support beyond 2023.

Throughout the day, the students along with their chaperons visited all three branches of the government.

The visiting group included eighteen students from Chuuk, eighteen from Pohnpei, ten from Kosrae and seven from Yap

The Vice President was accompanied by his special assistant, Mr. Herman Semes Jr.