Students who completed a summer camp under the Government’s job readiness programme were hailed for their enthusiasm and dedication today.

The high school students’ efforts were highlighted at a ceremony to mark International Youth Day 2024 at City Hall.

They were presented with certificates for taking part in the initiative, which was geared towards providing them with an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a summer camp setting.

The group was the first cohort to take up the programme, which ran in July at community centres in the east and west ends of the island.

The scheme was a joint effort of the Office of Youth Affairs and the Ministry of Education.

Davida Morris, a youth development officer at the youth affairs office, said she was proud of the journey undertaken by the participants to complete the programme.

She noted that their efforts “set a high standard for all future participants”.

The programme was transformative, Ms Morris said, and she pointed out that the students exceeded the co-ordinators’ expectations.

Ms Morris added: “Our students have shown remarkable dedication, enthusiasm as well as willingness to learn and grow.”

She said the students initially completed a two-day training session.

They then carried out voluntary work for a minimum of two weeks and, during that time, they dedicated five hours daily towards honing their skills in leadership, communication and organisation.

To be eligible for participation, Ms Morris said the students made “heartfelt submissions“ to the office and explained why they aspired to take part in the programme.

Reflecting on the impact of the programme, she said the teenagers gained a “unique and enriching experience that has not only empowered them but has also opened doors to new possibilities and career paths”.

Under the mentorship of youth co-ordinators and the watchful eyes of recreation workers, Ms Morris said, the students led group activities and embraced the responsibilities that came with their roles.

This year, International Youth Day was marked with the theme “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development”.

At today’s ceremony, Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, read a proclamation to mark the global event.

She said this year’s theme spoke directly to opportunities and challenges that lay ahead.

Ms Furbert added: “In today’s world, technology is not just a tool, it is a lifeline. It's how we connect, how we learn and how we grow.”

The minister said that the island’s young people were leading the way in the digital age “not just as consumers, but as vibrant creators, innovators and problem solvers”.

She said: “We must ensure that our youth are given every opportunity to thrive in this space with support and guidance.”

In a statement marking today’s celebrations, the Progressive Labour Party said it recognised and celebrated “the incredible contributions of Bermuda’s young people”.

It said: “Whether in sport, academics or serving our community, many of our Bermudian youth are thriving, excelling and representing Bermuda with honour and dignity.”

The party added: “We recognise that while many of our children are thriving, too many are falling through the cracks.

“That’s why we continue to support the Mirrors programme, as well as the Gang Violence Reduction Team for middle to high school students to intervene as early as possible and divert our youth away from gangs and other antisocial behaviour.

“We envision a Bermuda where every young person, regardless of background or circumstance, can access quality education, meaningful employment and opportunities for personal and professional growth.”

The PLP said: “The Bermuda Progressive Labour Party will always champion the cause of our youth.

“We stand with you, inspired by your energy and ideas, and are committed to creating a Bermuda where your dreams can become reality.

“Together, we will build a future filled with hope, opportunity and prosperity for all.”