Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC has praised the young people of Trinidad and Tobago for their growing role in community-driven development.
Speaking on the observance of International Youth Day 2025 under the theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the Prime Minister underscored the critical contribution of young citizens in driving change across the nation.
“Our youth are not only tomorrow’s leaders—they are today’s agents of change. Their creativity, innovation, and deep community roots drive sustainable development and digital transformation across our twin-island State.”
The Prime Minister said since returning to office, her administration has moved quickly to implement laws aimed at safeguarding the wellbeing of young people, including raising of the legal age for alcohol consumption to 21 years and for gambling and marijuana use to 25 years. She said these are clear signs of her Government’s commitment to protecting the nation’s youth from early exposure to potentially harmful behaviours.
She also outlined several policy priorities to further support youth development, particularly in areas that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:
– Major investment in Technical and Vocational Educational Training (TVET) and digital-skills training for the sustainable, technology-driven jobs of tomorrow.
– Expanded support for youth entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and community initiativesthat localise the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
– Broader access to mentorship, financing, and safe innovation spaces where young people can create, collaborate, and lead.
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar also issued an appeal to both the nation’s youth and its institutions:
“I urge every young person to channel your energy and ideas into your communities. I also call on civil society and the private sector to ensure youth voices are heard, talents nurtured, and aspirations realised. To the youth of Trinidad and Tobago—always remember that your passion lights the path to a more just, resilient, and prosperous nation. My Government believes in you, stands with you, and will keep investing in your future.”