The Government of Jamaica

Jamaican Flag
Senator The Honourable Dr. Dana Morris Dixon

Message from Senator The Honourable Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information

As we kick off Youth Month 2024, I want to take a moment to celebrate each of you and the incredible energy you bring to our nation. Youth Month is a time to recognise not only the contributions of youth but also your vast potenti al. This year, we’re embracing the theme “Youth IMPACT 2024,” a powerful reminder of the difference you can make in your schools, communities, nation and beyond. This theme reflects our shared commitment to nurturing the energy, creativity, and resilience of young Jamaicans and empowering each of you to create lasting impact across the areas that matter most—climate change, violence prevention, social policy, education, skills development, creative arts, digital transformation, economic empowerment and more.

Youth IMPACT 2024 is not just a theme; it’s a call to action. We encourage you to be active community participants and solution-oriented leaders and problem-solvers. This includes elevating voices from diverse backgrounds, including youth with disabilities, to ensure that Jamaica’s future is also built on the views of our youngest innovators’ strengths and contributions. Together, we will respond to the challenges you face—be it psychological, socio-economic, or personal—and, together , we will work towards overcoming them.

The Government of Jamaica and the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information are thrilled to coordinate a variety of activities throughout this month, all designed to recognise your contributions, engage and inspire you. We believe that your voices matter, and we want to provide you with the tools and opportunities to express yourselves fully and make a great life for yourself. We’ll host workshops, discussions, and community events that not only celebrate your achievements but also encourage you to take an active role in shaping your future.

This month’s agenda also aligns with the United Nations 2030 Youth Strategy, our national policy and reinforces the importance of vibrant, active youth participation. We want you to be active collaborators in decision-making and policy development, and provide leadership that will help guide our country’s progress. I urge you to participate, share your ideas, and collaborate with one another. We are committed to hearing and learning from you all. This is how we foster a Jamaica where every young person is equipped and ready to make an impact. This is how we build a more peaceful, productive and prosperous Jamaica.

Here’s to a fantastic Youth Month 2024! Warmest congratulations and best wishes for a successful month of activities and beyond.