International Youth Day and commencement of International Youth Year

On Thursday August 12, 2010, International Youth Day and the commencement of International Youth Year August 12, 2010 to August 11, 2011, the Guyana Public Service Union observed the occasion and also launched its proposed programme of activities for the year which was followed by a reception.

The event commenced with a short ceremony which was chaired by Ms. Ronella Hill, Assistant to the President/CEO and Co-Coordinator for the year’s programme. The objectives and list of activities were presented by Ms. Samantha Fedee`, Chairperson of the GPSU Youth Committee.

In addressing the gathering Ms. Fedee` stated that members of the Committee were proud of the United Nations resolution which aimed to “disseminate among young people the ideals of peace, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, solidarity and dedication to the objectives of progress and development”. She quoted President Franklin D. Roosevelt, former President of the United States, that “we cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future”, which is relevant to the aims of the GPSU to build, empower and enhance youths for the future.

The feature speaker of the event was Minister of Agriculture, Honourable Robert Persaud, MP, who “urged youths to take a stand, be responsible, and make changes that would affect their lives in a positive manner. Further young people need to embrace and support each other and encourage, dedicate and re-commit themselves as young people”.

Programme Manager for the Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP) Caribbean Centre in Guyana, Ms. Dwynette Eversley was also present and indicated that it was an opportunity for young voices to be heard, the issues known and strengthen and enhance advocacy platforms on issues that impact them on a daily basis.

GPSU and its Youth Committee plan to have a full year of activities done in three monthly phases under the UN’s theme: ‘Dialogue and Mutual Understanding’. In addition, GPSU expanded the theme to include elements such as “Enhancing and Empowering for Progress, Peace and Unity”. Activities for phase one include, public lectures, training on negotiation and mediation, healthy lifestyles, climate change, family and society. A two day workshop is proposed to recognize Caribbean Youth Day on September 30. Phase two would address the areas listed by United Nations such as Education, Employment, Hunger and Poverty, Health, Environment, Drug Abuse, HIV/AIDS, Youth and Conflict.

The GPSU takes this opportunity to wish youths in Guyana, across the Caribbean and the globe a successful year that will favourably shape and change their lives, actions and behavior.