MORE than 400 young people from 40 communities are to take part in a national youth award scheme, ahead of an upcoming outdoor expedition designed to teach leadership and life skills.
The participants are entering the Medal of Service tier of the President’s Youth Award Republic of Guyana (PYARG).

An orientation session was held at the National Gymnasium on Friday, ahead of a three-day training exercise at the Kuru Kuru Training Centre on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.
The session was organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport through its youth department and the award scheme.
Around 90-unit leaders, instructors, secondary school teachers and ministry staff are currently undergoing specialised training.
The weekend’s activities include hiking, campcraft, watermanship, wilderness first aid and leadership development.
Meanwhile, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., underscored the significance of the PYARG programme in shaping the next generation of leaders.
He noted that the initiative provides young people with opportunities to build resilience, strengthen teamwork and develop practical skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

Beyond outdoor adventure, the programme plays a critical role in fostering discipline, confidence and problem-solving abilities among participants.
It encourages young people from diverse backgrounds and communities to work together to strengthen national unity and social cohesion while promoting healthy and productive lifestyles.
The programme was restored by the PPP/C Government under the leadership of President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, and continues to expand its reach and impact, providing thousands of Guyanese youths with life-changing experiences and opportunities for self-development. [DPI]