OVER 40 students and eight teachers from the Anna Regina, Abram Zuil, Charity, Johanna Celicia, Cotton Field and Aurora Secondary Schools in Region Two, will benefit from intense training in civic engagement and leadership, compliments of the Guyana Centre for Civic Engagement (GyCCE).

The programme, which is being funded by the US Embassy, was launched on Saturday at the Anna Regina Secondary School.

According to the Community Solutions Programme alumnus Deodat Persaud, similar training sessions were conducted in Central Corentyne and will be extended to students at Bartica and other parts of the country.

Persaud said the programme aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders with the knowledge of civic responsibility and how they can contribute to their communities.

Deodat Persaud emphasised the importance of investing in youth empowerment, stating, “Our goal is to nurture a generation of leaders who are not only passionate about civic engagement, but also equipped with the skills and commitment to drive positive change.”

He said the YOUthEngage592 Leadership Training Programme is a pioneering initiative designed to empower Guyanese youth with essential skills in civic engagement, democratic participation, ethical leadership and volunteerism.

The YOUthEngage592 programme also seeks to increase civic engagement among secondary school students in Guyana, as well as encourage them to participate in the country’s democratic process.

“Students will develop leadership skills and also foster a sense of volunteerism in the community,” Persaud said.

The one-month programme which first commenced at J.C. Chandisingh Secondary School in Berbice, is poised to impact the lives of 100 students selected from secondary schools in Regions Two, Six, and Seven.

Upon successful completion, students will receive a certificate in recognition of their dedication and completion of a community-based project. This project component aims to further instill the values of volunteerism and civic responsibility among participants.

Students will undergo comprehensive training in key areas such as civic engagement, voting education, conflict resolution, and project planning, alongside instilling a strong ethos of volunteerism within their communities.

Persaud said the success of the “YOUthEngage592” programme underscores the commitment of GyCCE to foster youth development and promote democratic values in Guyana.