Government, youths in candid conversation

SOME 150 YOUTHS had a candid conversation with government officials Tuesday to flesh out benefit for them from projects and programmes designed and implemented by the state.

“Our young people are wise and they crave innovation, excitement and opportunities, and forums of this nature are a necessity because ultimately they inform our programming at the Department of Youth Empowerment,” Senior Youth Officer Sahira Joseph stated.

“I urge all of us to recognise this opportunity for what it is. We are here to communicate with each other,” Joseph explained at the caucus held at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort.

 During the meeting, youths also offered their perspective on ways the government can further fine tune its empowerment initiatives to fulfil their needs.

It was not the first-time government representatives and youths have met at a public forum. Joseph in delivering remarks said similar meetings in the past have been extremely useful.

Junior Minister for Youth Empowerment, Isalean Phillip, and her staff assured the forum that they want youths enjoy skills development, job training and transfer of knowledge during their tenure.

Phillip and her government also desire youths establishing their independence; be involved in social and decision-making plans.

Minister Phillip commended the wide mix of young people represented at Tuesday’s meeting which she said included high school students, representatives of youth groups, youth entrepreneurs, youth volunteers, members of sports groups, and residents of His Majesty’s Prison among others.

Recommendations from yesterday’s meeting will be seriously considered by senior officials, Minister Phillip assured.

The youths also met Prime Minister, Dr. Terrance Drew, Deputy Prime Minister, Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, who is the Education and Youth Empowerment Minister, as well Samal Duggins, Sports and Creative Economy Minister among others.

Tuesday’s Youth Forum was held as part of Youth Month 2022.