BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – MUCH preparation has been put into the upcoming Consultation on the Economy, and according to Minister of Finance, International Trade and Commerce Hon. Dr. Timothy Harris, the two-day sessions are to cater specifically to the needs of youth.
The event is slated for September 9-10. The opening ceremony and reception would be held on September 9, and the following day would be devoted to interactive sessions that allow the presenters and the audience to have an open dialogue.
This year’s economic consultation is held under the theme ‘Youth Development at the Core of our National Priorities’, a theme that has taken a different approach to policy-making regarding the economy.
Describing the theme as one that was “judiciously chosen”, Harris said it reflects national concern and puts attention on matters pertaining to the nation’s youth.
“We at the Ministry of Finance were very cognisant of national concern over the behaviour and conduct of our youths, and the challenges these were posing for national development.
We are aware that this is a young nation nearing its 26th anniversary, but it is also a country with a majority of its population below 35.
“Unless we harness the enthusiasm, energy, talent, and vision of the young people, we will not secure sustainable development,” Harris noted in a recent press release issued by his ministry.
Data and recommendations garnered throughout the consultations are expected to build consensus for the 2010 budget, as well as a medium-term economic strategy. The consultations may also provide ideas relating to how best the ministry can mainstream matters of importance to young people.
“We would want each Ministry to consider how their programmes are impacting young people and how these programmes can be better organized to achieve more efficacious results,” Harris said. “We are concerned not just with issues relating to social alleviant behaviours, crime and violence among young people. We are equally concerned to empower and enable our youths to play a meaningful role in the economic and socio-political life of the country.”
The Finance Minister noted that the Ministry should “hail and support” the socio-economic success stories of outstanding role models so they could be emulated by others.
He said there is much hope that the National Consultation would “highlight opportunities seized by young people and opportunities yet to be exploited”.
