By Vishanie Ragobeer

THE Guyana Police Force, in collaboration with the Guyana Association of Women Police, held the closing ceremony for its annual youth camp on Friday.Some 117 children between nine and 14 years participated in the youth camp, which began on August 14 and concluded yesterday at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s facilities at

Madewini on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

Of these 117 campers, there were 66 boys and 51 girls; along with 34 scouts and their seven leaders; 30 caregivers, and other police ranks involved in managing the affairs of the camp.

The campers all benefited from activities in woodworking, floral and fruit arranging, fabric painting, decorative dolls, thread work, wedding arrangements, and sewing of school uniforms. Lectures were, moreover, given to the children in drug abuse, education, challenges, and etiquette.

Deputy Police Superintendent and Camp Mother, Grace Davis, noted that she was “really impressed” with the work done by the teachers. She noted that the common message throughout the camp was “discipline”, and the children were assisted in building their self-esteem and interpersonal skills.

At the closing exercise, the children highlighted and showcased what they have learnt over the training period through drama, fashion and music.

Guest speaker, Assistant Police Commissioner Christopher Griffith, told the children that although the camp lasted for a short time, “take what you’ve been taught and place it in your long-term memory.” He added that these children were all “heroes whose glories are yet to be told.”

Ms. Maxine Graham, Head of the Guyana Association of Women Police, noted that this is the third year that the August camp has been conducted, and it has become an annual affair. It began as a programme that the police force, more specifically the Commissioner, formulated to be able to “coordinate with the community in all spheres,” according to Ms. Graham.

She said it is part of the GPF’s plans to be able to promote positive attributes in all divisions and communities, and to direct youths towards positive behaviours.

She told the Guyana Chronicle that all police divisions, A to F, collaborated to foster the programme. This year, there has been a spike in the number of children participating, compared to the two previous years. This, she said, indicates that the Police has been able to target the communities “more effectively.”

Awards were given to exceptional scouts and campers, but all campers received certificates of participation. The youth camp this year was held under the theme:

“Developing Youths through Community Projects, Discipline and Team Work.”