KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation in partnership with several government entities will on Thursday launch the Youth Environmental Advocacy Programme (YEAP).

The ministry said in a news release on Tuesday the programme is being launched to raise awareness among Jamaica’s youth about the importance of the environment.

The ministry said in keeping with the Rio +20 Declaration, which highlighted the need for the youth to be more involved in creating the future they want, the programme will seeks to increase their knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the environment, and to promote the commitment of youth to the principles of environmental conservation and protection.

YEAP, according to the ministry, is different from other environmental programmes in that young people will have the opportunity to interact directly with the people who work on policies and programmes relating to the environment, within the various government agencies and departments.

The programme will target high school students between the ages of 11 and 19 as the ministry feels this age cohort will be the next generation to influence change.

YEAP will be launched at the Holy Childhood Auditorium.