POLICE in ‘D’ Division (West Demerara) and the Region Three Administration teamed up on Saturday to support youths in the Essequibo riverine community of Bonasika.Scores of residents showed up at the community centre ground where kites and footballs were distributed. There, the Youth Club, the Men’s Club and the Women’s Club were launched by the visiting team, which included Police ‘D’ Division Commander Stephen Mansell; Region Three REO Denis Jaikaran; Parika Station Sergeant, Bridgemohan; Pastor Victor Grimmond of Cops and Faith Network; Police Community Relations Officer, Inspector Grant; and other ranks.

Commander Mansell told the large gathering that, having teamed up with the REO of Region 3, the Police Division has embarked on a series of youth programmes targeting school drop-outs and unemployed youths. He said those interested can benefit from the one-year diploma programme at the Leonora Technical and Vocational Institute, and the young ladies from age 14 and older can participate in a six-week cookery class at Medina Restaurant, West Coast Demerara.

Commander Mansell said two computers will be donated to the community, and arrangements will be made for them to be housed at the school under the stewardship of Headmaster Kapil Ramsamuj. He said the police will assist in training the pupils and youths in that community in the use of the computers.

REO Mr Jaikaran said that for the past two months the Region has engaged the Police in ‘D’ Division to enhance the lives of youths and the unemployed. He pointed out that the Regional administration has donated a building to the Police for use in skills training.

The REO explained that the two agencies are interested in offering a helping hand so young people can be gainfully employed.
He said that despite the location of Bonasika, they decided to visit and talk to residents, to understand their needs and offer relevant assistance.

REO Jaikaran pointed out that the partnership between the police and the Region will ensure all is done to foster education and self-development of youths in that riverine community.

A date will be set for a fun day, and the Women’s Group has been urged to have a fundraiser for that club.

(Story and photos by Michel Outridge)