A CALL FOR HOPE FROM THE YOUTH

I am one of ~302,000 citizens aged 18 to 35. For us, the National Budget isn’t just about numbers and figures; it’s a matter of our future, and we are deeply invested in its outcome. In a country where the average life expectancy is 70 years, it’s disheartening to see leaders who have long left their youth, dictating the course of our nation, without genuine inclusion of and consultation with the ‘youth’.

The affairs of Trinidad and Tobago matter to us profoundly, and here’s how we see it:

Investing in Skills for a Brighter Tomorrow

Education is the cornerstone of our future, but it’s not just about textbooks and classrooms. It’s time to allocate funds to future-proofing technical skills. Transformational curriculum reform can be completed in 1-year – if we have the will behind it.

Empowering Youth Through Experience

The On-the-Job Training (OJT) programme was a game-changer for young job seekers, but sadly, its effectiveness has dwindled. There must be structured partnership between businesses and the government to re-imagine OJT, along with development of the respective sectors for career advancement opportunities.

Tackling Traffic and Infrastructure Head-On

A fully digitalised public transportation system, and decentralisation of public services, along with equality of standards in all schools would certainly reduce the need for students (and others) to leave and arrive home in darkness – fatigued and frustrated.

Revamping Healthcare

Hire immediately all the unemployed young, highly-qualified healthcare professionals, and execute a sustained national awareness programme for young people to eat and live healthily.

Protecting the Environment

There are many young persons interested in the national energy transition process – upskill and put them to work.

Engaging Youth and Fostering Change

I understand the disillusionment many of us feel regarding the current state of politics in Trinidad and Tobago. Let us sustain hope and unite our communities to combat corruption and economic challenges. To my fellow youth: let’s speak up about our concerns, demand accountability and fiscal responsibility, and work together to reclaim our nation from the clutches of corruption and economic distress.

I look forward to actively engaging in discussions surrounding the Budget.

We should remain steadfast in demanding a Budget that is really a continuation of a long-term master plan – rather than an annual dose of hollow politicking that says a lot without stating anything at all.

I am determined to shape a future that reflects our aspirations for a better Trinidad and Tobago.

I HOPE YOU ARE TOO!

ANARION MASON

Chair,
YOUTH, SPORTS & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (YSCD) COMMITTEE
HOPE – for Honesty, Opportunity, Performance & Empowerment
YSCD.Chair@hope.tt | 491 8083