Youth Can Move the World

What is Youth Can Move the World?
The “Youth Can Move The World” programme is a one-year training programme presented by Varqa Foundation in collaboration with the Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE) of the University of Guyana.

The programme is organized in two parts. In the first part youth from around the country attend a 70 hour training course. In the second phase of the programme the 70-hour course is presented by the participants in their local communities on a weekly basis (in schools, community centers and youth clubs throughout the country).

How can I join?
Since the programme lasts for one year, applicants are only chosen once for the year. Please watch the media for more information about Youth Can Move the World.

What topics are covered?
Many youth-related issues are covered including:

  • Drug abuse
  • Domestic violence
  • Literacy
  • Gender equity
  • Environmental protection
  • HIV/AIDS issues
  • Suicide
  • Promotion of the arts

Another key element of the course is on ways to promote personal and community transformation. The material used in this course includes scripture from the major religions in Guyana, namely the Bahá’í Faith, Christianity, Hinduism and Islam.

What materials will I be given to work with?
Along with the Facilitators’ Manual that is given at the first training participants will also be given some supplies to take back to the community. Extensive use of the Arts will be made during the programme. Participants learn how to make banners, puppets, board games and write songs and skits.

What will happen at the end of the one year training?
People who successfully complete the one-year programme will receive a certificate from IDCE.

In addition, a festival will be held at the end of the year – with attractive prizes for the best presentations which portray the Youth Can Move the World messages – using the arts which have been learned over the 70 hour training process.

What is the cost of the programme?
This training is absolutely free!

Special thanks to . . .
A number of agencies have contributed to the development of this programme. Including:

  • Nancy Campbell Collegiate Institute Canada
  • Help and Shelter
  • Ministry of Health
  • Conservation International
  • Iwokorama
  • National Commission on the Rights of the Child
  • Gender Equity Programme, Canadian High Commission, CIDA