YOUNG people in Region Eight are being given greater access to education, training, employment and personal development opportunities through the inaugural Regional Youth Conference launched in Kato by Minister of Amerindian Affairs Sarah Browne-Shadeek.
The conference is designed to provide youths with direct access to key government agencies, educational institutions and national organisations, allowing them to learn about available opportunities and engage with representatives on issues affecting their development.
Among the institutions participating in the conference are the University of Guyana (UG), Board of Industrial Training (BIT), Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA).
The interactive sessions are expected to expose Region Eight youths to opportunities in higher education, technical and vocational training, employment, national service and the tourism sector.
A major feature of the conference is the presence of the Guyana Passport Office, which is providing services to residents of the region.
Residents will have the opportunity to apply for passports during the conference and, according to the organisers, receive their documents the following day, eliminating the need to travel outside the region to access the service.
The initiative is also expected to strengthen the connection between young people in Region Eight and institutions responsible for providing education, skills training and employment opportunities.
The conference brings together youth representatives and community stakeholders in an effort to ensure that young people in the hinterland are better informed about national programmes and services available to them.
Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development Pauline Sukhai; Member of Parliament Alister Charlie; Permanent Secretary Ryan Toolsiram; Ministerial Planning Officer Miriam Andrew; Regional Chairperson Tarcillia John; and several Toshaos were among those in attendance.
The launch marks what organisers hope will become an important platform for empowering Region Eight youths and connecting them with opportunities for personal, educational and professional advancement.