PRESIDENTIAL Adviser on Science and Technology and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) stalwart, Mr. Navin Chandarpal has called for peace, progress and prosperity to continue in Guyana.

He issued the exhortation at a special service to mark the 60th anniversary of the party’s Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) on Thursday, September 5.
Speaking on the occasion at State House compound, Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast, in Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam), Chandarpal said, in honour of all those who have made great sacrifice over the years, some with their lives, the PYO anniversary should be celebrated to ensure peace, progress and prosperity continue across Guyana.
He said the PYO, since its formation on September 5, 1952, has struggled alongside the PPP for the freedom of all Guyanese and this milestone should be used to reflect on the memory of the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan, whose vision it was to form the grouping for young people.
Chandarpal said the organisation, which represents betterment for all Guyanese, has come a long way since its formation and many have paid with their lives so freedom can be enjoyed today.
He suggested that PYO groups be set up in every village on the Essequibo Coast so young people can become active to make their voices heard.
According to him, the only way to have empowerment in life is to organise and mobilise to carry on the struggle started 60 years ago by Cheddi Jagan, father of the nation.
Chandarpal challenged all in his audience to make the commitment to ensure PYO groups are established to reach out to young people, so that they can be properly informed and educated.
Many leaders
He noted that many leaders and Ministers of Government came through the ranks of the PYO.
Several other speakers, including executive member of the PPP Central Committee and current Minister within the Agriculture Ministry, Mr. Alli Baksh also attested to the many sacrifices of their comrades, some even losing their lives during the struggling and dark days to ensure the survival of the PYO.
Baksh also shared his life experiences in the PYO.
Another speaker, former Member of Parliament (MP), Mr. Isahack Basir said that the PYO is a very important university for the working class and other classes of people and persons must make the most of it.
Head of the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO), Indra Chandarpal in her address posited that pioneer groups be established in the region so as to develop the PYO base and she pledged her grouping’s support to the effort.
Director of Sports and PPP member, Mr. Neil Kumar recalled that, over the years, the PYO has produced strong leaders of the party and he endorsed the suggestion that groups be created in every village.
The celebratory programme, which attracted a large group of youths and members of the PPP, also featured poetry, songs and dances.