Article: Where are the Promised Youth Policies?
Jamell Robinson
Where are the promised Youth Policies?
With Youth week upon us, under the theme “Igniting the Youth to Ignite the Future”, the question must be asked where are all the promised youth policies by our current administration? With so many unfulfilled promises, it makes you wonder exactly what we are igniting and how exactly are we going to ignite the youth for the future. Many of the promises are great and actionable ideas, but where are they?
Where is the National Youth Policy that was last updated when Dr. Carlton Mills was Minister of Education?
Where is the Jobs policy and Ministerial Portfolio with named responsibility for job creation?
Where is the Progressive Youth Development for Real Change as stated in Pillar 4 of the Change Document?
Where are the targeted programs to encourage Youth Entrepreneurship which was to ensure real access to start up and expansive capital?
Where is the Youth – Better You Program that was to have at its heart national volunteer service?
Where is the Policy to ensure that youth of national age are allowed to serve on national boards which will allow them to have exposure to decision making at that level?
Where is the Creative Arts Program that would encourage youth creativity?
Where are the forged partnerships with the private sector to ensure that opportunities and programs are in place for our youth?
Where are the partnerships which would ensure placement of youth on jobs in the public and private sector especially those students returning from training overseas?
What’s surprising is that many of the above promises were also outlined in the 2012 PDM manifesto –The Blue Print, so it is reasonable to think that 7 years later, many promises would have been started if not fully implemented , especially given our Premier’s long history with youth activism. This Administration’s stated philosophy in regard to our Youth is as follows: “Our philosophy is that in order for the youth to become leaders of tomorrow, they must be co-leaders of today. It is important that we create opportunities where they can serve and develop their talents, skills and identity.”
There is a clear disconnect between what was promised the Youth of this country and what has been implemented in the past 3 years of this Administration. At a time when gun violence has taken the lives of so many of our Young Men, we the people expect action and not a bag a mouth.
Stay Blessed TCI,
Jamell Robinson
