The Tribune

FREEPORT – Minister for Grand Bahama Dr Michael Darville assured the public that the government is fully committed to the development of young people.

Dr Darville’s comments came during the opening of a three-day Bahamas Youth Congress 2013. The event, the theme of which is “The Power of One,” is being sponsored by the youth department of the Freeport Seventh Day Adventist Church.

He told the gathering in the Grand Ball Room of the Grand Lucayan Hotel that he is certain the event will lead to a range of social benefits for the island, as its purpose is to transform and mould the lives of the young people by affording them the opportunity to participate in training sessions geared toward building character and developing leadership skills.

“The theme The Power of One, drives home the message to you, the youth, that each of us has the gifts, talents and strength to make a positive difference in our communities, our countries and our world, through the power of Jesus Christ.

“As a Christian nation, we take pride in our beliefs in sound biblical principles. However, one only need to read the local newspaper, watch the news or log on to social media sites to see vivid images of youth involved in illegal and immoral behaviour.

“This is because we live in a society where some young people seemingly do not know how to channel their anger, fears and frustration and others give in to peer pressure to do what 
is morally incorrect,” he said.

Dr. Darville noted that this phenomenon is not indigenous to tshe Bahamas, and the fact that other countries are represented by their respective youth leaders at the conference proves that it is a pressing issue that must be addressed worldwide.

“Be assured that the government of the Bahamas is fully committed to the development of our youth, and as such, supports events such as this which will aid in building character, and enhancing their social and spiritual growth,” Dr Darville said.