“Words cannot express how happy I am to see this programme in Acklins,” said Acklins GGYA unit leader, Cora Ching-Hanna. 

Students enrolled in this voluntary, non competitive programme of leisure activities have been given the opportunity to develop and sharpen important life skills, she added.

“They have also contributed valuable service to the community such as beautifying beaches, road clean ups, patching holes in the road and assisting with the project to restore Acklins after Hurricane Irene,” Mrs Ching-Hanna said.

There are 35 participants in the Youth Award in Acklins. In November, 18 students marked a milestone by obtaining their first award, the Bronze. The higher the level, the longer the time it takes to achieve an award. The Bronze could be obtained in about six months.

The GGYA is a member of the International Award Association for Young People, headquartered in the United Kingdom. The Award Programme is based in over 130 countries world-wide. 

Participants improve physical fitness, develop important skills, provide valuable community service and undertake an adventurous journey in order to achieve a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award. 

In fulfilling these requirements, the Acklins’ students formed new basketball and volleyball teams. Some learnt to read music and play musical instruments which, in turn, lead to the re-formation of a school band at Acklins Central High School.

The GGYA unit leader in Acklins, Cora Ching-Hanna.

“This programme provides students with an overall learning experience. In Acklins there isn’t much for these kids to do. This programme provides an outlet for kids to do something positive,” said Acklins Central High principal, Ricardo Ferguson who attributes the programme’s success locally to Ching-Hanna’s dedication.

“I have observed students who have participated in this programme and one can see the leadership qualities in them. Overall, the students are excited about the programme and they always seem hyped up about it, despite the many miles they may have to hike.”

Although the programme is open to persons age 14 to 25 years old, Mr Ferguson has noticed increasing interest from persons as young as 12.

Thus far, parents response to the GGYA has been overwhelming.

“I support the GGYA 100 percent. It’s a programme that’s geared to keeping our young people focused,” said parent Diane Forbes. “When I saw my son’s Bronze Award, I was so proud of her achievement.” 

Another Acklins’ parent, Marilyn Williams echoed similar sentiments.

“I am thankful for this program. It’s great for the kids,” she said. “It keeps them out of trouble and it encourages them to make positive contributions to the community.”

 

In 2010, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Charles Maynard announced a government partnership with the GGYA, called the G.O.L.D. Initiative - an acronym for Greatness, Opportunity, Leadership and Development - all attributes the ministry wants to see developed in the nation’s youths.

The partnership brought a considerable financial infusion to the programme in order to make it more accessible to young persons throughout The Bahamas. 

“I have had a great experience in the program. I have learnt so many things, in particular, how to survive and camp out in deserted areas,” said Acklins Bronze Award holder, Douglas Collie. “Overall, this program has taught me a whole lot.  I plan to continue with the program in order to achieve my Silver and Gold Award. Once I have completed the program I look forward to returning as a unit coordinator or volunteer.”