92 Participants Join 10th Annual Youth Parliament in Guyana
By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News
GEORGETOWN, Guyana – Ninety-two young people from across the country are taking part in the 10th Annual Youth Parliament, launched on August 12 in observance of International Youth Day. The participants include 41 in the junior category and 51 in the senior category, representing diverse academic and regional backgrounds.
Diverse Selection of Participants
The Ministry of Education selected junior category participants from the nation’s 11 education districts. Senior participants were chosen from institutions such as the Guyana Industrial Training Center, University of Guyana, Linden Technical Institute, New Amsterdam Technical Institute, and the Fifth Speaker National Debating Competition.
Calls for Respectful, Constructive Debate
Appearing virtually, British High Commissioner Jane Miller urged the young parliamentarians to maintain respectful and civil discourse during debates, especially in this election year.
“Ideas can clash without people clashing,” Miller said, encouraging them to “disagree agreeably” while speaking boldly and meaningfully.
Minister’s Advice for Impactful Engagement
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., also addressed the gathering virtually, highlighting that Youth Parliament provides an essential platform for young people to articulate views on topical issues.
“The quality of the debates is very important to me,” Ramson said. “More important is that your arguments must be heard – not necessarily by volume, but by resonance with your audience.”
A Stepping Stone for Youth Leadership
The Minister described the forum as a stepping stone for youth engagement in politics, policy, and national development, noting its role in preparing future leaders to contribute meaningfully to Guyana’s democratic processes.
