Seven Access to Information Youth Ambassadors Inducted

Seven Youth Ambassadors were inducted in the Access to Information (ATI) Ambassadors programme. The programme which is in its pilot phase is aimed at empowering youth to play a more active role in the country’s democratic framework. 

Acting Director of the Access to Information Unit, Mrs. Tomica Daley says “The vision of engaging our youth is high on the Unit’s list of priorities as we continue to create opportunities for the youth to share in the conversation aimed at promoting access to information.” The Youth Ambassadors, who will be selected from High Schools island wide will serve for twelve months and are expected to carry out ATI projects in their schools. 

Hon Floyd Green says the programme is another powerful signal that government believes strongly in the youth. He added that integrity, transparency and accountability are important to the country’s governance. Minister with responsibility for the Unit, Hon Derrick Smith along with Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, Mrs Audrey Sewell lauded the Ambassadors and charged them to serve with excellence.  

The Ambassadors are tasked with creating awareness amongst their peers on the tenets of the ATI Act, its application and importance. Speaking on behalf of his fellow Ambassadors, 

Shaquille Johnson said “the youth are honoured to be part of something of such national significance and which the nation has needed for some time”. 

In the meantime, the Ambassadors underwent training on the provisions of the ATI Act and the terms of reference of the youth Ambassadors programme.
The induction was held at the Banquet Hall, Jamaica House, last year.