On Friday, March 24, 2017, the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Library Services kicked off its second Youth Listening Tour Launch in Grand Turk at the H J Robinson High School Auditorium.
“It was a successful launching. The tour is a key part of my Government’s Change initiative,” said the Minister of Education, Hon. Josephine Connolly. “As noted in our change document, there will be a heavy focus on young people, on their empowerment and our commitment to giving them an opportunity to have their views and opinions be part of our planning and development.”
She further added; “The listening series will break down barriers between the youth, government and opportunities for success. Over the coming year, the Youth Department officials will host similar listening sessions and discussions with youth across the country.”
During the conversation at the H J Robinson High School Auditorium, the young people raised varying issues which emphasized the importance of education, sport and activities for their lives and for their future. The youths participating in the discussion courageously offered their honest feelings, experiences and desires.
Almost all of those who spoke up, suggested the government promote more sporting activities, programs for both males and females, so that they could stay away from negative influences. They stated their desire for a youth center, dance classes, a better school canteen, sidewalks to avoid the mud when it rains, lockers and more vocational subjects to be taught in schools. There were personal feelings expressed about the role of teachers and even experiences that were negative coming out of classrooms.
The minister was encouraged by the participation and assured the youths: “we hear you! I hear you!”