BETHLEHEM (Ma'an) -- Around 1,200 Palestinians have registered to compete in a new TV talent show to find the youth president.

"The President," which will air on Ma'an TV from March 14, aims to promote the concept of citizenship, to raise awareness about democracy and human rights, and to enhance the spirit of leadership and social responsibility.

From Monday, a panel of youth leaders will interview competitors from the West Bank, Gaza and Israel at the Conference Palace in al-Khader, south of Bethlehem.

Over three days, the best competitors will be shortlisted, before the final 25 candidates are selected by an "elders committee" including PLO Executive Committee member Hanan Ashrawi, Knesset member Ahmad Tibi and general manager of Jawwal telecommunications company Ammar al-Ikir.

Over 10 episodes, the 25 finalists will perform tasks and the elders committee will eliminate three people each week.

The new youth president will be crowned by the end of June.