Basseterre, St. Kitts, September 19, 2019 (SKNIS): The Explorers Youth Groups left an indelible mark on today’s (Thursday, September 19, 2019) 36th Independence Day Ceremonial Parade as hundreds of nationals, residents and dignitaries were awe-inspired by the splendid display of some 700 children, marching around the Warner Park Cricket Stadium.
The contingent received the largest cheers and applause of troops on display as they proudly represented their respective communities in St. Kitts – Molineux-Phillips’ (Mol-Phil), Shadwell, Cayon, St. Peters, Newtown, Old Road, Trinity, Lodge, St. Pauls.
“It really is something good to see,” said B’jorn, a young entrepreneur who took photographs of the parade.
Another resident, Emma, was particularly proud to attend the parade as her 11-year-old granddaughter was marching alongside peers in the Newtown Explorers Club.
“Oh, it was wonderful because she chose it,” Emma said, referring to the decision to join the Explorers. “She chose it and I am here to support her.”
The Explorers Group caters to children between the ages of 3 to 19 years. It was launched in July 2017, with the start of the Mol-Phil Club. The programme is a key component of the Ministry of National Security’s Crime Reduction and Prevention Strategy, as it is designed to promote positive experiences, and highlights alternative pathways for youth.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National, Osmond Petty, said that marching is a foundational activity of the Explorers Movement.
“Marching is an important part of discipline. They follow rules, and they learn to obey commands,” Mr. Petty stated, noting that parents also look forward to seeing their child/children on parade at various times of the year.
In 2019, the group marched through the streets of Basseterre in April to raise public awareness about the Club, and in August as part of the Police Force’s Annual Summer Camp.
“But the big one for all of these children and their proud parents is the Independence Day Ceremonial Parade and that is the foundation activity for the Explorers,” Mr. Petty added.
Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris commended the young people of the Explorers Groups and the police officers that work with them for participating in the parade.
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