GIVEN that the main objective of Youth Parliament is to improve the democratic process within the Commonwealth, enhance participants’ awareness of parliamentary democracy, and give them a platform to share their opinions, concerns, and expectations, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips, emphasised the significance of the Eight Annual Youth Parliament, describing it as a forum for youth to express their thoughts and plot their way for a better future.

During his presentation at the Ramada Princess Hotel on Friday evening, Prime Minister Phillips praised the participants for their enthusiasm and reassured them that the government is committed to creating an atmosphere where young people’s voices are not only heard but also have a lasting impact while empowering and involving them in building a brighter future for the nation.

“This platform allows our young people to amplify their position as torchbearers of a brighter future…. You hold in your hands the power to mould our tomorrows, to redefine what it means to be the change we wish to see.

“When young people engage in activities such as these, their participation serves as a powerful reminder that the issues they care about, be they climate change, social justice, education, or healthcare, are not abstract concepts but real challenges that require practical solutions. When we sit at the table with our young people, we allow their ideas to breathe life into policy discussions, shape legislative agendas, and make their concerns part of the national conversation,” the Prime Minister said.

He added that programmes such as the President’s Youth Advisory Council and Youth Entrepreneurship are intended to empower youth and incorporate their interests into the national agenda.

The Prime Minister also highlighted that the government will continue with initiatives to support young people in obtaining jobs, purchasing a home, and developing their ICT skills. He further explained that programmes such as the Youth Parliament are a crucial component of a larger strategy to raise young people’s standards of living and prepare them to take on important roles as local and global leaders.

He praised the young lawmakers for their active participation in the ongoing debate and their proactive initiatives. He also applauded their capacity to address specific problems and put up workable solutions that would strengthen Guyana.

“Young people’s voices, ideas, and actions are desirable and essential. Your generation, equipped with a unique blend of technological prowess, global connectivity, and an unquenchable thirst for justice, has unprecedented power to steer societies towards progress and equality”, Minister Phillips explained.

The Eighth Annual Youth Parliament underlined the crucial role played by young people in developing laws, institutions, and policies that reflect the variety and aspirations of society.
The event was attended by the Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips; Manzoor Nadir, Speaker of the National Assembly; lawmakers; Deputy British High Commissioner. Judy Kpogho; Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Susan Rodrigues; representatives from the University of the West Indies, other government officials, and some of the members of the opposition.