St. Kitts and Nevis: The inauguration of Independence Youth Rally was held on September 13, 2024 as a part of the activities to mark the 41st Anniversary of St. Kitts and Nevis’ Independence. The event observed the vibrancy of nation’s youth, which was displayed.
Reportedly, the event was commenced with a march from Port Zante to the Warner Park Cricket Stadium with the primary and secondary school students donning the national colours of green, red, white, black and yellow.
The students were entertained at the youth rally, which included the folklore performances, dancing and singing. Impactful presentations were also held that encouraged the students to avoid the negative habits of substance abuse.
As per the sources, many young people of and across St. Kitts and Nevis participated in the inauguration of the Independence Youth Rally. There, the students carried placards and signs, that expressed patriotism and school pride, while others denounced crime and violence.
Furthermore, special presentations were displayed by the National Drug Council, which encouraged the students to avoid the negative habits of substance abuse. Their rallying call was related to the theme to: “put it out before it puts you out.”
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis, utilised the occasion to officially launch the ground-breaking Achieving Success through personal Investment, Resources and also the Education ‘ASPIRE’ programme.
The citizens of the nation aged between 05 to 18 years, included nationals and those with the citizenship by descent, as part of the programme, which will receive a government contribution of EC $1,000.
Notably, the amount will be split into two components: EC $500 that will be deposited into a savings account at St. Kitts and Nevis in Anguilla National Bank, while the remaining EC $500 will be invested in shares of local, government-owned entities.
It an innovation that approaches with an aim to foster both savings habits and investment knowledge among the young people, helping them in building wealth from an early age.
Minister of State Responsible for Youth Empowerment – Isalean Phillip said that the celebration united the youth in honour of Independence. According to her, it reinforces the true meaning of patriotism and the value of being a civic-minded.
Phillip emphasised the themes that were captured in the national anthem and encouraged the students to stand proudly as the anthem honours citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis as hardworking and loving with a deep commitment to honour and respect each other.