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More than 600 young people who previously spent time on the ‘blocks’ have enrolled in government-supported vocational training, and 30 of them have set up their own businesses, Charles Griffiths, Minister for Youth, Sport and Community Empowerment, said. It was revealed on Wednesday.
Speaking to reporters at Kensington Oval, Mr Griffiths detailed the progress of Project Dawn, the Government’s initiative targeting young people at risk of criminal activity. His comments are consistent with Attorney General Dale Marshall’s recent statements regarding concerns about juvenile crime.
“Like the AG, I am deeply concerned about the number of young people involved in crime, particularly serious crime,” Mr Griffiths said. “But the truth is that the government has provided many avenues for young people to participate in structured, high-quality initiatives and programs across the island. Project Dawn focuses on
Highlighting the program’s success in business creation, the Minister said: “At least 30 new businesses have been started by young men and women who once spent their days on the streets. It clearly shows that he is willing and able to step up and take charge of his future.”
The scope of Project Dawn also includes agricultural efforts, with more than 20 acres of land allocated in Belle Plaine, St. Andrew, for participants interested in agriculture. “We provide land and equipment to people who want to farm,” Griffiths explained. “What are the requirements? They register their business and show they are serious about investing in themselves. Then the government will give them a half-hearted response.”
The scheme also provides facilities for landscape gardeners, and all you need to do to receive support is to register as a business. In addition, digital media training provides young people with the opportunity to learn camera operation, editing, and other skills for the digital economy.
Recently, the Government hosted the IAM Youth Conference, a three-day event at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Center, where young people shared feedback on youth work. The department is also refurbishing sports facilities across the island, “ensuring that all playing fields are fit for purpose in terms of lighting and provision of additional equipment,” Mr Griffiths said.
Despite the availability of these programs, the Minister acknowledged that there is a problem with youth awareness. He proposed a “media blitz” to promote the initiative, saying: “Young people need to know these opportunities exist and we are working to make sure they know.” Ta.
Although youth crime remains a challenge, Mr Griffiths expressed optimism about the program’s impact.
“Yes, there are some young people who are considered deviant, but by and large the government would have made a huge effort in terms of introducing projects and programs for those young people,” he said. .
“We’re going to keep working, we’re going to keep improving, we’re going to keep reaching out. Our young people have great potential and it’s up to us to make sure they have every chance to realize it. It depends.”
(RG)
