Youth minister: 600 ‘block’ folk join govt training scheme

ore than 600 young people who previously spent time on “the blocks” have enrolled in government-sponsored vocational training, with 30 launching their own businesses, Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment Charles Griffith revealed Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters at Kensington Oval, Griffith detailed the progress of Project Dawn, a government initiative targeting youth at risk of criminal behaviour. His comments aligned with recent statements from Attorney General Dale Marshall on youth crime concerns.

“I am, like the AG, deeply concerned about the number of young persons who are involved in crime, especially serious crime,” Griffith said. “But the truth is, the government has provided a number of avenues for young people to be involved in structured, quality initiatives or programmes across the island. One in particular is Project Dawn, which focuses on men and women living on the blocks across Barbados.”

The minister highlighted the programme’s success in business creation: “At least 30 new businesses started by young men and women who used to spend their days on the blocks. This is a clear indication that when given the opportunity, many of our young people are willing and able to step up and take charge of their future.”

Project Dawn’s scope includes agricultural initiatives, with over 20 acres allocated in Belleplaine, St Andrew, for participants interested in farming. “We’re giving those who want to farm the land and equipment,” Griffith explained. “The requirement? That they register a business and show they’re serious about investing in themselves. If they do, the government will meet them halfway.”

The scheme also provides equipment for landscaping enterprises, requiring only business registration for support. Additionally, digital media training offers young people opportunities to learn camera operation, editing, and other skills aligned with the digital economy.

Recently, the government organised the IAM Youth Conference, a three-day event at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, where young people shared feedback on youth initiatives. The ministry is also upgrading sports facilities island-wide, ensuring “all of our playing fields fit for purpose in terms of lighting, in terms of providing additional equipment,” Griffith noted.

Despite these programmes’ availability, the minister acknowledged awareness issues among youth. He proposed a “media blitz” to promote the initiatives, saying, “Young people need to know these opportunities exist, and we’re working to make sure they do.”

Whilst youth crime remains a challenge, Griffith expressed optimism about the programmes’ impact.

“Yes, we have a few youngsters who are deemed to be deviant, but by and large, the government would have done a whole lot of work in terms of putting projects and programmes in place for those youngsters,” he said.

“We’re going to keep working, keep improving, and keep reaching out. Our young people have so much potential, and it’s up to us to make sure they have every chance to fulfil it.”

(RG)