SVG Coast Guard Youth Summer Programme begins

The St Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard Youth Development Summer Programme 2018 got started on Monday, July 16, at the SVG Coast Guard Base, Calliaqua.

Lieutenant Enos Hamlette

The programme which is in its 25th year, is being held under the theme, “Shaping our Youths for Life’s High Seas.” This year’s programme is made possible by Sagicor, the Bank of St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Wind and Seas.

Speaking at the ceremony to mark the official opening, co-ordinator, Petty Officer Damian Franklyn, said that the programme is not one for the participants to pass the time during their vacation, but it is one that is geared towards their development. He expressed gratitude to the sponsors for making the programme possible, and pointed out a number of areas in which the participants will be trained. Franklyn noted that the participants will be exposed to training in personal development, navigation, safety at sea, substance abuse, leadership development, conflict resolution, CPR and first aid response, and Planned Parenthood, among others.

Lieutenant Enos Hamlette, who spoke on behalf of the Coast Guard Commander, noted that the SVG Coast Guard’s Youth Development Summer Programme is one of the most coveted programs in this country, but they cannot accommodate everyone who wishes to participate. He, therefore encouraged those who were granted the opportunity to participate to make the best use of the opportunity.

Manager of Sagicor, Stanley Browne, said his company is happy to be associated with the programme and noted that they have been on board for 24 years. He said this is indicative of their commitment to the development of the youth of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He also congratulated the SVG Coast Guard on the initiative, noting that the programme is arguably the best youth summer programme in this country.

co-ordinator Petty Officer Damian Franklyn

Commissioner of Police Colin John said the SVG Coast Guard Youth Development Summer Programme has moulded many lives, and there are practical benefits to be had from it, as some of the current Coast Guard officers were once participants in the summer programme. He said through this programme the participants will be able to establish networks, build lasting friendships and learn about the intricacies of the operations in the SVG Coast Guard. The Commissioner also said that the programme will channel the participants in the right direction to be better citizens of SVG and the world.

Manager of Sagicor Stanley Browne

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard Youth Development Summer Programme will be carried out in three phases, the first phase will run to July 24, while the second will run from July 30 to August 7, and the third phase from August 13 to August 21.