Port of Spain, Thursday November 7, 2024: Minister of Youth Development and National Service (MYDNS), the Honourable Foster Cummings, presented Letters of Appointment to the Board of Management for the Youth Transformation and Rehabilitation Centre (YTRC), formerly known as the Youth Training Centre (YTC).
Speaking at the Ceremony, Minister Cummings stated that “to encourage personal development, accountability and positive life skills, a variety of programmes will be offered at the Centre, including academic courses, skills training and behavioural therapy.” The Youth Minister added that, “The YTRC is assigned the dual responsibility of the MYDNS and the Ministry of National Security, to integrate the youth development work done at the MYDNS, as part of the rehabilitative work done by the YTRC.”
Sharing similar sentiments, MYDNS’s Deputy Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Savitri Balkaran stated, “Our mission transcends mere confinement; it expresses a commitment to fostering their physical wellbeing; safeguarding their emotional landscape; and steering them towards adulthood with maturity and responsibility.”
The YTRC, under the purview of the Ministry of National Security – Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service (TTPrS), is a rehabilitative Centre for young male offenders between the ages of 16 and 18. The Centre provides general education and vocational training; counselling; mentorship and creative activities, to reintegrate these youth offenders into society and reduce recidivism.
Addressing the small audience, the newly appointed Chairman of the Board of Management, Inspector of Prisons, Mr. St. Clair Michael O’Neil said, “I am confident, speaking on behalf of the Board, when I say that we are ready to meet and exceed the expectations.” He added, “With the assistance from the relevant stakeholders, it is my plan that the Board focuses on advocating for the implantation of new vocational and recreational programmes and facilities for our residents; provide them with the tools, guidance and opportunities they need to rise above their circumstances and rebuild their lives.”
The Ministry of Youth Development and National Service remains committed to bringing all stakeholders together to promote youth development and encourages civic-minded citizens to contribute to the National Service of Trinidad and Tobago.
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