By Sue-Ann Wayow

YOUTH officer of the People’s National Movement (PNM) Kareem Marcelle is calling on government to expand youth programmes and not to disrupt already existing ones.

In a message on International Youth Day 2025, Marcelle said this year’s theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” was a reminder that meaningful change starts right at home in schools, communities and islands.

He said, “Across our nation, young people are leading positive action. From launching innovative businesses, serving in leadership roles, championing community activism to excelling in education, sports, culture and technical fields, our nation’s youth are showing up and showing out. These contributions are critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and to building a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Trinidad and Tobago.”

Marcelle referring to a Professor Selwyn Ryan Committee (2013) Report entitled “No Time to Quit: Engaging Youth at Risk” said the report made it clear that long-term, sustained investment in young people, particularly those most at risk, was essential for reducing crime, fostering social inclusion and unlocking their potential.

He said, “In the recent months, it is with grave concern and disappointment that as nation we are witnessing a calculated dismantling of our youth development apparatus. First, with the dismantling of the Ministry of Youth Development and National Service and simply putting Youth Development on a back burner in the hands of a  small division within the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs.”

“Secondly, with the disruption of several programmes like Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), Military-led Academic Training (MiLAT), CRISP, Project DRIVE, ALLSET, AMPLIF, National Leadership Training Programme, numerous Youth Agricultural Programmes, MIC programmes and many more.”

Marcelle said, “As the Youth Officer of the PNM and the Member of Parliament for Laventille West, I am calling on the government to ensure that these programmes are not only preserved but also expanded. Our nation’s vulnerable youth must have access to skills training, entrepreneurship support, recreation, and cultural expression in every community across Trinidad and Tobago.”

He told young people their energy and vision matter.

Marcelle encouraged, “To every young person across Trinidad and Tobago, keep building, keep striving and keep believing in your ability to make a difference. Your time is now.”