Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Hon. Olivia Grange, says there is a need for communities to work together to strengthen their social, cultural and economic frameworks. She said that is critical in ensuring the sustainable development of the society, and to safeguard the welfare of its children in the future.
Speaking at a symposium at the Mico University College, Marescaux Road, Kingston, commemorating African Liberation Day on Wednesday (May 25), Miss Grange noted that sustainable development requires programmes which can benefit children over the long term.
She noted that the United Nations (UN) has designated 2011 as the International Year of People of African Descent (IPAD), focusing on the collective role of the community in children’s welfare in African nations, as reflected in the proverb: “It takes a village to raise a child”.
She stated that the Government, through her Ministry, has incorporated this adage into planned activities commemorating the occasion, including the recent Workers’ Week and Labour Day activities.
“We believe this is especially relevant to us, here in Jamaica, as we approach our Golden Jubilee. Therefore, as we continue the focus on our children, we (will) promote IPAD, and demonstrate solidarity and friendship with our African brothers and sisters,” she said.
She pointed out that the government is committed to strengthening Jamaica’s ties with the continent of Africa, during the period.
source – JIS
