Barbados YouthADVANCE Corps starts two-year programme

The Barbados YouthADVANCE Corps (BYAC) welcomed its fifth intake of trainees to the Residential Phase of the two-year youth development programme on November 13. 

One hundred and seventy-seven (177) young men and women arrived at the BYAC Headquarters at #33 Warrens Industrial Park, St. Michael, to officially commence the two-year programme, following a newly implemented six-week, pre-residential preparatory programme.

A few tears and lots of smiles of pride were seen, as parents watched their children board the transportation to take them to the Barbados Defence Force Paragon Base in Christ Church, their new home for the next nine weeks.

BYAC Cohort 5 Trainees arriving at the Paragon Campsite on November 13th, 2022.

This fifth cohort comprises 118 males and 59 females who have made the first steps in their new journey through the comprehensive BYAC programme, which includes academics, technical and vocational training, civics and volunteerism, disciplinary training, sports, physical fitness, life skills, first aid and cultural arts.

Now two weeks in, the trainees have settled into their new routine, engaging in enhanced personal development programme activities, disciplinary and drill routines and selecting their cultural and sporting disciplines. Trainees also got the opportunity to meet past trainees who are now members of the Barbados Defence Force. The informal sessions were an inspiration to all, especially those with the career goals of joining the Force.

BYAC Female trainees arriving at Paragon Campsite to begin the nine week Residential Programme.

Earlier this year, the BYAC saw trainees from Cohorts 1 and 2 graduate, several of whom have secured employment through the work attachment final phase of the programme. (PR)