THE safety of neighbourhoods is an important indicator of its overall economic and social health. Neighbourhood crime prevention efforts are essential and as such safe neighbourhoods are necessary to foster common values and community quality of life. The bond among residents of the Agricola- Mc Doom community is a good indication that the efforts of the Citizen Security Programme (CSP) have impacted lives in this community. This was very evident at the Agricola-Mc Doom Youth Life Skills Vocational Training Programme graduation held at St Anne’s Primary School on Friday.
It was a proud moment for the 61 young men and women who graduated after extensive six-month training in a number of areas. With a red and gold colour scheme, a well organized ceremony served to launch them in the field of masonry, welding/fabrication, cosmetology, garment construction and food preparation and service.
This is the second batch of trainees in the Agricola/Mc Doom community, 34 having graduated in the first. A third batch is currently in training.
At the well attended ceremony, Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee expressed much joy as he remarked that the songs and the themes of the exercise are signs of optimism and positive strides in the building of stronger social cohesion, thus enhancing the livelihood and safety of the community.
He again challenged the young people to develop their passion and build on this achievement and called on residents to support them in every possible way as this will benefit the entire community.
Community Action Officer, Natasha Corrica expressed joy and satisfaction with the new relationships that were forged as a result of the programme. She recognized the strength in unity among the participants and encouraged them not to see the programme under the Government of Guyana as a political fixture, but rather a miracle that came to them at a much needed time.  She encouraged the youths to follow the proverbial tale of the ants, “Build in your summer and store for your winter”.
Bishop Juan Edghill in his remarks encouraged the youths to “dream again” and to aspire for the best. This was followed by words from Rosanne Purnwasie, Community Action Specialist of the CSP as she quoted the inspirational Hariet Tubman “Every great dream begins with a dreamer”.
The Community Action Component under the CSP has demonstrated that its theme “Breaking down walls and Building Bridges” is in action. (GINA)