Fostering an interest in technology, particularly communications technologies,
is one of the major aims of Amateur Radio.

Apart from the technical aspects, Amateur Radio 'communication' also helps our youth
to interact with a widely diverse group of people throughout the world, from Kings to Plumbers.

There are many ways that Amateur Radio operators directly involve the youth in our community.
One of the large scale activities involves the Scouting and Guiding community
through the 'Jamboree On The Air" ( JOTA).

During this event scouts and guides from around the world are given the opportunity to talk,
type messages and see each other through the technologies available to Amateur Radio Operators
including Amateur Television, Amateur Radio Computer Networks,
Satellites, Shortwave and local voice communications.

While the JOTA is an annual event, many Scout and Guide groups also continue
radio activities throughout the year including the operation of Amateur Radio stations
at Scout and Guide campsites and meeting halls in many parts of the country.

Amateur Radio is also present in our Primary and Secondary schools,
introducing children to the world of radio communications.

A number of schools around Australia have established
Amateur Radio stations as part of their curriculum.

In Queensland some use is made of Amateur Television,
while in other states Packet Radio (linking computers over radio) is used.

A number of schools host Amateur Packet Radio Bulletin Board stations.
These allow the children to send and receive messages to other school groups
and general amateur stations all over the world.

Amateur Radio need not be expensive. The training available leads to an ability to build
simple but effective equipment, receivers and transmitters,
which can allow communication on both a local and international basis.

There is also generally some local amateur operator who is prepared
to offer advice and guidance to others interested in the hobby.

Most of all, Amateur Radio opens a door for young people
into the world of radio communications as a career.

Many young people who start out in Amateur Radio
have progressed into careers in
Electronic Engineering,
Computer Networking,
the Television and Broadcasting industry
and into research in communications technologies.

This community based service in promoting and encouraging
technology and communications to our youth
will act as a stepping stone to helping Australia
become the Clever Country it wants to be.

WIA WA - AR Guide - Amateur Radio & Youth
With thanks to the original writer

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The WIA exists for all Radio Amateurs, Does it speak for you.
Amateurs Unite and Conquer, United we stand, Divided we fall.