News

The much-anticipated 8th Annual Youth Parliament was officially launched today, bringing together young minds from across the 11 educational districts across the country.

This auspicious event was launched via a hybrid format. Logging in on the Zoom platform or in person in the Chamber of the Public Buildings, Brickdam Georgetown., all eighty-six participants, mentors (former Youth Parliamentarians), and special invitees listened intently to brief remarks by keynote speakers. 

The Hybrid Opening Ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries such as the Hon. Manzoor Nadir, M.P., Speaker of the National Assembly, who emphasized the importance of engaging youth in constructive dialogues about societal challenges and policies that affect their lives. 

In his keynote address, Hon Kame McCoy, M.P., Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, highlighted Guyana’s commitment to honour the United Nations Convention on the Right of the Child to uphold the right of young people to have a say and to have the opportunity to express their views on matters that affect them.

The 8th Annual Youth Parliament is a testament to the power of youth engagement in shaping the future of society. 

In her keynote address, Her Excellency Judy Kpogho, Deputy British High Commissioner – British Parliamentary System, enlightened Youth Parliamentarians on the Westminster model of Parliament to foster a deeper understanding of parliamentary processes and democratic governance. She further highlighted how knowledge gained can impact their lives and the future of their nation. 

At the conclusion of the launch, the Youth Parliamentarians benefited from the following training sessions:

• Standing Orders – Point of Order and Point of Clarification by Hon. Manzoor Nadir, M.P., Speaker of the National Assembly
• Role of Members of Parliament by Hon. Khemraj Ramjattan, M.P., Opposition Member of Parliament
• Branches of Government by Ms. Hermina Gilgeours, Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly

Interactive sessions in Youth Leadership were also conducted by Former Youth Parliamentarians Mr. Stephon Gabriel and Ms. Sadiya Yahya.

Physical sittings will be held in the Chamber of the Public Buildings, Brickdam, Georgetown, on Thursday, August 17, and Friday, August 18, 2023. 

The Sittings will be streamed live on the Parliament of Guyana Website, Facebook, and YouTube Pages.