More than 34 youths were certified over the weekend on completion of their unit leaders’ training under the President’s Youth Award: Republic of Guyana (PYARG) Programme.
A Government Information Agency (GINA) press release quoted Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr Frank Anthony as saying that the unit leaders “will coordinate youths within their communities to become part of the programme.” He said too they have been trained in a number of areas “to develop their self-esteem and leadership skill,” during the graduation ceremony hosted at the Carifesta Sports Complex. HIV/AIDS, substance abuse, peer educating and edutainment is also being conducted under the expanded programme. “This is an ongoing and comprehensive programme which young people should get involved in,” the minister said.
PYARG Executive Officer Alfred King said that the award can only be accessed through unit leaders. He said it is expected that all unit leaders will return to their respective communities and regions to impart their knowledge and skills to other youths.
“We want to make the award a programme of choice in Guyana for young people and want to assure them that once they become involved it will make a difference in their lives,” he said.
King said communities will benefit directly from the training of unit leaders as they will make up a pool of competent persons who can promote, mobilize, train and work with young people through the programme.
He said too individuals who are self-involved will be engaged in a number of activities that will enhance their life skills and allow them to lead more positive and productive lives.
