KINGSTON, Jamaica – President of the Senate, Tom Tavares-Finson says Jamaica’s youth play a very vital role in the future of the country.

In a release on Tuesday, Tavares-Finson, who was speaking at the 14th sitting of the National Youth Parliament of Jamaica at Gordon House in downtown Kingston on Monday, said that as the country continues to confront various challenges and opportunities, “it is imperative that we foster in them a sense of purpose and direction.”

“In this Year of the Youth, we acknowledge the vibrancy, passion and potential that the younger generation brings to the table in their energy and enthusiasm that will propel us forward on the path of a sustainable future as a nation,” he said.

Held under the theme ‘The Year of Youth: Trending for a Sustainable Future,” the sitting of the National Youth Parliament formed part of the celebrations for National Youth Month 2023.

Pointing out that Sustainability isn’t merely an environmental concern but rather one that encompasses “economic, social and cultural dimensions,” Senator Tavares-Finson said it requires the nation’s youth to balance “progress with responsibility, ensuring that the benefits of development are shared equitably and that future generations inherit a world that is flourishing and resilient.”

The President then reminded the youngsters that, as youth leaders, they have a unique opportunity to influence policy and advocate for change as well as the responsibility to inspire their peers.

“This is your year. This is the year of the youth… not just this year, but the future belongs to you. Continue to trend for a sustainable future,” he said.

Minister of Education and Youth, Fayval Williams, said for this year’s sitting of the National Youth Parliament, a total of 250 applications were received, from which 100 young persons were selected to be members of the 2023 cohort.

“The sittings are aimed at encouraging you to remain engaged in the democratic process and to counter the often-cynical outlook that leads some of your colleagues to withdraw from civic activities and the political process as well as to lose faith in the value of dialogue and the process of governance,” she said. “This forum provides an opportunity for you to express your views on what is happening in national development in a more informed and organised way.”