The Youth Development Division officially launched its 2025 National Summer Programmes on Monday, June 23, during a ceremony at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium conference room. The annual initiative aims to engage over 500 young people across Dominica in skills training and personal development activities throughout July and August.
This year’s launch reinforced the government’s ongoing investment in youth empowerment and skills-based learning. In attendance were key figures from the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development, as well as the Ministry of Education. Present at the event were Hon. Gretta Roberts, Minister for Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development; Hon. Oscar George, Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports; Hon. Octavia Alfred, Minister for Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training and National Excellence; Mr. Sylvester Jno Baptiste, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development; and Mr. John Roach, Chief Youth Development Officer.
In her address, Hon. Gretta Roberts commended the Division for its steadfast commitment to engaging youth across the island. She described the summer initiative as a cornerstone in the government’s broader strategy to create opportunities and open new pathways for young people. “We are proud to support a programme that continues to inspire growth, discipline, and transformation in our youth,” she said.
Hon. Oscar George emphasized the significance of the programme as part of Dominica’s human capital development. He called on participants to seize the moment. “This is not just a summer activity, it is an investment in your future. Whether you take up a trade or start a business, what you learn this summer could shape your life,” George stated.
The programme will deliver more than 40 training sessions in communities across Dominica, from Capuchin to Grand Bay. Areas of focus include entrepreneurship, computer literacy, auto mechanics, cake decorating, music, plumbing, electrical installation, and nail technology. Much of the training will be facilitated by instructors attached to the Youth Skills Training Programme (YSTP), a long-standing arm of the Youth Development Division.
Chief Youth Development Officer John Roach spoke to the broader vision of the initiative. “We aim to equip young people not just with technical skills but with life skills, discipline, teamwork, and confidence, that will carry them far,” he said. Roach also noted the Division’s ongoing collaboration with village councils and local partners to ensure the programme is responsive to each community’s needs.
Hon. Octavia Alfred, in her remarks, reinforced the programme’s alignment with Dominica’s educational development goals, noting that such training complements formal education and promotes innovation among youth.
The 2025 programme will conclude with a national exhibition showcasing the work, creativity, and talent of the participants. Registration for the various sessions remains open through the Youth Development Division’s district offices.
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