Minister Parag convenes first-ever adolescent symposium

Teenagers from schools across Guyana gathered at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Saturday for the inaugural Adolescent Symposium and Impromptu Speaking Competition.

The event, hosted in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the Government of Canada, and UNICEF, focused on the theme “Creating Safe, Healthy and Inclusive Spaces for Adolescents.”

It provided a platform for young people to speak on critical issues, including adolescent sexual and reproductive health.

Education Minister, Honourable Sonia Parag, highlighted the importance of education in helping adolescents make safe, healthy, and responsible choices.

She stated that the Ministry of Education is committed to preparing young people for adulthood by incorporating Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) education into the Health and Family Life Education curriculum.

Collaborating partners such as the National Aids Programme Secretariat (NAPS), the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA), the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Adventures contributed to the event’s success.

The forum officially recognized adolescents as the next generation of leaders who will shape Guyana’s future. Through breakout sessions and the Impromptu Speaking Competition, participants explored the complexities of adolescence.

In her keynote address, Minister Parag acknowledged the sensitive nature of sexual and reproductive health, noting that the topic has historically been taboo.

“Make great use of this opportunity at a symposium like this,” she encouraged participants. She added, “the responsible conversations surrounding sexual and reproductive health should not be taken lightly.”

The Minister further explained, “Sexual and Reproductive Health is not just about the physical changes you will go through. It also includes your emotional and mental well-being.”

Saturday’s discussions examined pressures faced by young people, including relationship dynamics, the need for acceptance, academic demands, and balancing personal identity with performance.

Minister Parag also recognized the influence of the digital age, stating, “You belong to a technological age. You are in the social media age,” and emphasized that adolescents have the power to raise awareness and create change on a larger scale.

The inaugural symposium marked a milestone in youth engagement in Guyana, establishing what Minister Parag promises will be a lasting platform for adolescent health advocacy and leadership development.