KINGSTON, Jamaica — Two new categories have been added to the Prime Minister’s National Youth Awards for Excellence (PMNYAE) for which nominations are now open.

Director of the Youth and Adolescent Policy Division at the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Yanique Williams, made the disclosure in an interview with JIS News.

“As we strive to enhance our offerings and foster inclusivity, we have introduced two new categories — the TVET Award for those excelling in Technical and Vocational Education and Training, and the Special Abilities Award, which recognises nominees from the special needs community who have made remarkable achievements in their fields,” she said.

The other award categories are academics, agriculture and agro-processing, arts and culture, entrepreneurship/social entrepreneurship, environmental protection, innovation in science and technology, journalism/e-journalism, music, nation building (volunteerism), national leadership, new media (including social media, YouTubers, bloggers, and vloggers), sports, and youth development.

The prestigious PMNYAE recognises exceptional Jamaicans, locally and in the diaspora, ages 15 to 29, who have demonstrated excellence in various fields and serve as positive role models within their communities.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and recognise the accomplishments of young Jamaicans who embody resilience and excellence,” said Williams.

“We encourage applications from all parishes and across diverse youth groups as we intentionally highlight the significant achievements of our nation’s youth,” she said.

Nominations for the PMNYAE close on Saturday, March 15, 2025. Interested persons are invited to submit completed nomination forms via email to yapdjamaica@moey.gov.jm.

Nomination packages will also be distributed to key stakeholders and partners throughout the country.

For more information about the nomination process or other inquiries, individuals are advised to contact the Technical Secretariat at yapdjamaica@moey.gov.jm or call (876) 922-1400 ext 6126 or (876) 435-0839.

— JIS