PM pushes for stronger youth exchanges across Caribbean

Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley is calling on Caribbean leaders to create more opportunities for young people to experience life in other regional territories, saying initiatives like the CARIFESTA XV Student Jamboree are essential to building unity.

Speaking during Thursday’s visit to the residential camp at Lester Vaughan School, Mottley told the more than 250 students from 12 countries that these shared experiences go beyond the classroom.

“If I had my way, I would love to see at least a thousand young people from each Caribbean country spending [up to] four weeks in another territory every summer,” she said.

“Because you can’t take for granted what you have and these shared experiences shape who you become.”

The Student Jamboree, which began on August 21, has been extended to accommodate late arrivals.

Camp Director Nigel Taylor said the programme includes daily visits to CARIFESTA events, cultural workshops, and local tours, giving students a first-hand look at Barbadian and Caribbean heritage.Mottley urged the students to embrace solidarity, stay focused, and “carry the habit of excellence wherever life takes [them].” (SM)