WASHINGTON, DC – AS St. Kitts and Nevis joined other nations across the Americas to recognize June 9 as International Youth and Children’s Day, the Federation reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for its young people.
Delivering the national address at the Organization of American States (OAS) Inter-American Council for Integral Development (CIDI) on June 4, Augustine Skerritt, Minister Counselor and Alternate Representative highlighted the country’s strategic approach to youth development through its Sustainable Island State Agenda.
"Through our Sustainable Ireland State Agenda, we prioritise equitable access to quality education at all levels." said Skerritt. "The Ministry of Education has made significant strides in inclusion, such as early childhood initiatives like training parents and educators on autism,
The Federation is seeking to build resilience across all sectors—from health to food and agriculture—is central to achieving national sustainability, and that the welfare of children and youth remains a top priority.
"Our delegation is pleased to join in commemorating the Americas Children and Youth Day, a timely reminder that safeguarding the rights and well-being of our young people is a shared duty across our hemisphere," noted Skerritt. "Our Federation remains committed to building an inclusive, empowering environment for our children and youth. Through our Sustainable Ireland State Agenda, we prioritise equitable access to quality education at all levels
The Federation currently operates 17 government-run early childhood centres, reflecting its belief in providing a strong foundation for lifelong learning. In addition, Skerritt underscored the government’s efforts to amplify youth voices through dedicated forums and programmes that allow young people to engage directly with policymakers.
He also pointed to several key national initiatives, including the National Youth Policy, the 25 Most Remarkable Teens programme—which annually honours exceptional young leaders—and the government’s continued support of the St. Kitts-Nevis Youth Parliament Association.
Further supporting youth empowerment, Skerritt highlighted a range of programmes in technical and vocational education, entrepreneurship, mentorship for boys, and support for teen mothers.
"Chair, our government continues to support the youth voice by hosting forums and programmes where young persons can dialogue directly with policy makers."
Skerritt expressed the Federation’s eagerness to continue working with the OAS to build a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
