Thirty Lethem youths complete civic leadership skills programme

Thirty students and three mentors from St. Ignatius Secondary School graduated on Saturday from the YOUthEngage592 Leadership Training Programme during a ceremony at the Takutu Hotel Benab in Lethem.

The two-month civic leadership course, hosted by the Guyana Centre for Civic Engagement (GYCCE), aimed to strengthen youth participation in nation-building. It covered modules in Civic Engagement, Ethical Leadership, Conflict Resolution, Patriotism, Elections and Voting Education, Project Planning and Volunteerism. Sessions were facilitated by Deodat Persaud, Narima Ali and Lauriston Choy.

In his opening remarks, Curriculum Coordinator Feroze Khan encouraged graduates to remain focused on excellence and to apply the lessons learned to promote positive change in their communities. Regional Chairperson Vania Albert commended the initiative, urging students to seize educational opportunities as a foundation for leadership and service.

GYCCE Director Deodat Persaud stressed the importance of youth engagement and patriotism, noting that the programme fosters responsible citizenship through civic education and mentorship.

Awards of Excellence were presented to the Green Generation Group, led by Timothy Mohabir, for installing solar lights in the school compound, and to Vanderson Henry for leading an anti-littering campaign. Another team created a library space within the school.

Funded by the US State Department through the US Embassy in Georgetown, the YOUthEngage592 Programme continues to build a network of civic-minded young leaders across Guyana.