The Caribbean, like many other regions, “stands to benefit significantly from the energy, creativity, and technological aptitude that young people bring to the table”.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment, Charley Browne, stated this as he delivered the feature address at the Digital Barbados Youth Forum, held at The University of the West Indies, recently.
Mr. Browne, who is an advocate for digital innovation, emphasised the significance of the forum as the Caribbean is at a pivotal point in the digital space.
“Our development, where we stand at the early stages of a digital revolution that has the potential to reshape our society, economy, and the very fabric of our daily lives, from e-commerce to fintech, healthcare to education, the possibilities are boundless,” he stated.
He highlighted the critical role of young people in propelling digital transformation in the Caribbean. “Young people will and should be at the forefront of driving digital transformation in the Caribbean. Their innate tech-savviness, innovative thinking, entrepreneurial spirit, and global connectivity position them as catalysts for change. It is imperative that governments, businesses, and educational institutions invest in and harness this youthful potential,” he emphasised.
The Permanent Secretary also spoke about the Ministry’s initiatives, including the Community Technology Programme, which he said are designed to provide essential digital skills and opportunities for young Barbadians, irrespective of their social or economic status.
Mr. Browne noted that the Ministry, in collaboration with the International Telecommunications Union and UNICEF, is currently running a digital skill training programme at the Sion Hill Community Centre. The courses on offer include Introduction to Computers, Mobile Phone Repairs, and Quick Books.
He also pointed to another initiative which the Ministry offers, in partnership with UNICEF. He said the Video Production and Editing course titled “Video 246” aims to equip young people with the skills necessary to pursue careers in videography. Similarly, he indicated that the Ministry offers a Digital Media Programme that exposes young people to camera operations, editing, and scriptwriting.
Permanent Secretary Browne said the programme had also been extended to the Barbados Prison Service. Currently, 31 inmates are undergoing training to enable them to acquire marketable skills and generate income when they are reintegrated into society.
He noted that the Ministry’s mandate is to support and facilitate youth in driving and leading initiatives for digital transformation; and creating sustainable opportunities for growth and economic development.
