THE observance of International Year of Youth 2010-2011, with the theme ‘Dialogue and Mutual Understanding’, started yesterday in the auditorium of Marian Academy on Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown.
Member of the International Year of Youth Commmittee, Mark Ross said the vision is of a movement in Guyana that provides leadership and guidance through strategic networking, strengthened partnerships and dialogue among youth and leaders in the Guyanese society.
He said disinvestment in youth’s potential is costly both to the youth and society as a whole and shaping their behaviour and social norms are very important.
Ross encouraged youths to voice their concerns, issues and make recommendations to the leaders of the nation, so that policies and programmes can be reflective of those needs.
Prime Minister Samuel Hinds offered his best wishes to the youths of Guyana on behalf of himself and President Bharat Jagdeo.
Mr. Hinds said the Government is well aware that there is more being done in other societies for young people but maintained that, at home, focus must be on work within the context of this country.
United Nations Resident Coordinator, Dr. Fletcher-Paul said dialogue must be relevant to the local society, as the world is made up of 87 percent youths between the ages of 15 and 25 years who live in developing countries with less jobs availability.
The diplomat said youths should seek peaceful solutions to conflicts by showing each other respect that would also recognise the older generations and by doing so, they will be encouraged to learn the needs of the youths.
In attendance, too, were Burrowes School of Art Chairperson, Ms. Michella Abraham-Ali, popular local singers Tenecia DeFreitas and Jackie Hanover and students and teachers of the host school.
In December 2009, the United Nations adopted resolution 64/134, proclaiming the International Year of Youth from August 12, 2010 to August 11, 2011, during which awareness would be raised about the situation of young people around the world, increase youth participation in decision-making processes and the promotion of youth as a smart investment.
The year aims to reach across generations, cultures, religions and civilisations and promote the ideals of peace, respect for human rights and solidarity.