Countries across the world celebrated International Youth Day on Aug. 12, highlighting the everyday achievements of young people enriching institutions and processes at the local, national and global levels.

The 2020 theme of International Youth Day was “Youth Engagement for Global Action.” It highlighted the importance and value of young people’s contributions and drew lessons on how their representation and engagement in formal institutional politics can be significantly enhanced.

Minister for Education, Innovation, Gender Relations and Sustainable Development Hon. Dr. Gale Rigobert, said she remains committed to providing opportunities for young people to continue to be at the forefront of the development of Saint Lucia. She explained that continued investments in education will ensure that no one is left behind and that a quality education for all becomes our reality.

She added that government will continue to amplify efforts aimed at modernizing the education system, making it more relevant to our times and providing greater opportunities for the learning and application of science, technology, engineering and mathematics as well as the creative sectors for the youth.

The Minister explained that young people are the country’s hope in achieving the Sustainable Development 2030 goals, and that government will continue to encourage them to play their part and allow their voices to be heard.