International Youth Day Message

Director of Youth, Melissa Carmichael.

International Youth Day is observed annually on August 12 each year to recognise and celebrate the contributions of young people. As we observe this day under the theme “Safe Spaces for Youth” I wish to inform the youths of this nation that the Government of Guyana continues to make available safe spaces for young people to come together and share in activities that are geared towards making meaningful contributions to the nation’s development.

Also, the New Urban Agenda (NUA) reiterates the need for public spaces for youth to enable them to interact with family and have constructive inter-generational dialogue. Additionally, the World Programme of Action for Youth (WPAY) which is the UN framework for youth development prioritises the provision of “leisure activities” as essential to the psychological, cognitive and physical development of young people.

Guyana’s young people are a national priority and as such the Department of Youth is committed to doing its part by developing comprehensive programmes using a strategic multi-sectorial approach aimed at addressing the critical needs of Guyanese youth.

We recognise and embrace the crucial roles we are expected to play in ensuring that the government’s commitment to the youth of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana is realised, as such, the Department of Youth stands ready to implement and execute its mandates/policies which aim at preparation and empowerment of our youth to participate and excel in a Green State.

We have and will continue to ensure that young people across this great land have access to safe spaces that are adequately equipped to facilitate the empowerment through training and awareness initiatives that will enable them to make meaningful contributions in their personal and community’s development.

As we observe this day, I encourage youths to make full use of the resources provided to enhance their development and their respective communities whilst fostering peace and social cohesion.

Happy International Youth Day!