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The United Workers Party (UWP) launched its ‘Youth SOS Plan’ on Sunday, a solutions-driven agenda to empower Saint Lucia’s youth with transformative opportunities, stronger representation and a genuine voice in shaping Saint Lucia’s future. The plan was unveiled at a Youth Revolution rally in Micoud and features several key initiatives, including the launch of a Digital Learning Academy to train and certify youth in emerging skills like Cybersecurity, AI, and Robotics, and introducing a Mortgage Guarantee Programme to assist first-time homebuyers. Additionally, the UWP has pledged to fund youth start-ups with grants of up to $25,000 in the creative industries, digital economy, agriculture, and hospitality. Other notable initiatives include providing the National Youth Council (NYC) with more resources, celebrating Saint Lucia’s culture with a dedicated Dennery Segment stage, and appointing Youth Ambassadors in Sports, Entertainment, and Business. To further empower youth, the UWP plans to institutionalize youth participation in policymaking, giving young people a seat in Constituency Councils, Statutory Boards, and national committees. “What I’m going to reveal tonight is a pledge to the young people of this country, a pledge to restore your future and to restore your faith in government and to make sure that you can achieve all the things that you want and more,” Opposition Leader Allen Chastanet said on Sunday. He acknowledged the frustration and anger felt by young people, saying, “They (the SLP) have stolen your future…and you have every reason to be outraged”. “You deserve better than what you’re getting now,” Chastanet stated. The ‘Youth Revolution’ rally kicked off with a massive motorcade on Sunday, drawing crowds from all 17 constituencies.
