– receives more computers and equipment to assist youth

THE Board of Industrial Training (BIT) has committed to accrediting the Linden youth who would be participating in the 12 week ICT workshop conducted by the Linden Youth Network (LYN). This is a NGO formed out of the recently concluded BIT facilitated ICT workshop in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady.

The 37 youths, after realising that they were significantly empowered by the ICT workshop, created the NGO to pass on the skills learnt to other youth residing in various communities in Linden. The movement has made significant headway and has even attracted many sponsors and donors who believe that with its success, Linden youth can be truly transformed.

On Emancipation day, Professor Joyanner Agnes made a significant contribution of five Lenovo laptop computers, an HP printer and a backup surge protector amongst other items to the youth group. She was approached by LYN member, Monisa Niles and immediately made the contribution while giving her commitment to providing continuous support and guidance to the NGO. A few weeks prior, the youth group also received computers from members of the Diaspora.

LYN mentor Deron Adams said that the NGO is extremely grateful for the contributions and support as a number of youth have expressed interest in ICT training. “LYN wants to expand the perspective of young people to make them aware of life’s possibilities and so our focus is to empower youth in establishing goals and following through on commitments,” said Adams. Adams also expressed appreciation to BIT for demonstrating interest in accrediting the youth who will be facilitated by LYN. “A number of persons who would have been a part of the first training are today employed and we believe that by having BIT on board, it seals the [destiny] of Guyana’s future.”

The Linden youth will be trained in office ethics, public speaking, micro enterprise, Mathematics, English, sexual and reproductive health, Microsoft programmes, social work and robotics.

Johanna Allicock, the valedictorian of the batch, told the Guyana Chronicle that the workshop has been a great experience for her, since it enhanced her knowledge on computers and the way they work. Allicock is an aspiring teacher and plans on using her training as she pursues her career path. “As an aspiring teacher, this training will prepare me for the field of work. Many things that I did not understand in school relating to computers, I was able to get a better knowledge of,” she attested.

Selina Joseph, another graduate, said that the workshop benefited her a lot because she is now certified and will be using that certificate to apply for jobs. She was appreciative of the knowledge gained in computer programming but more so, the knowledge to adapt to the world of work. “I learned a lot of things in ICT such as mouse basics, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Publisher and so forth, but most importantly, I learned to enhance my business ethics and so forth for when I am applying for a job.”
Knowledge must be shared

Upon the completion of the first 12 week workshop, LYN will be venturing into the various communities where ICT hubs are available to engage young people.