Graduates are first batch in Belize to graduate with the Diploma in Youth Development Work through CYPCC's partnership with the UWI, Mona Campus, Jamaica.

The recent graduation ceremony in Belize at which nine students graduated with the Commonwealth Youth Programme Diploma in Youth Development Work was described by many as a defining moment in the lives of the graduates and their families, reinforcing the need for the recognition of youth development work as a profession.

The recent graduation ceremony in Belize at which nine students graduated with the Commonwealth Youth Programme Diploma in Youth Development Work was described by many as a defining moment in the lives of the graduates and their families, reinforcing the need for the recognition of youth development work as a profession.

Director of Youth, Mr. Linsford Castillo, in the keynote address at ceremony, which was held at the University of the West Indies (UWI) School of Continuing Studies, on May 4, recognised the sacrifice of the students during the two years and noted his department's contribution from the inception of the programme.

Castillo felt that the students' performance was worth the investment made by his department and urged the graduates to continue working hard with the young people of Belize. He also informed the gathering that many persons were already enquiring about the commencement of the next offering of the diploma.

Ms Sandra Cadle, Country Coordinator and Mistress of Ceremonies, was commended by the graduates for her unselfish and dedicated support to the students during the programme and for facilitating the graduation ceremony. Ms Cadle has been Country Coordinator for CYP programmes at the certificate and diploma levels for a number of years.

UWI Resident Tutor (a.g) Ms Jane Bennet, speaking on behalf of all the staff of UWI SCS who contributed to the success of the programme, challenged the graduates to put their learning to good use for the good of the Belizean society.

Ms. Glenyss James, addresses the graduation ceremony. In background are the graduates

Ms Diaz-Gordon also took the opportunity to thank the staff of the University, the Country Coordinator, Mr Castillo, their families, friends and the Commonwealth Youth Programme Caribbean Centre for their contribution. She also thanked Mr. Nuri Muhammed, former Director of Youth for the significant role he played in the start up of the diploma and his decision to have the department finance their participation.

The invocation of God's blessings on the ceremony was followed by the passionate singing of Belize's national.

In an emotional presentation, graduate Beatrice Tzul, recalled the long days and nights, her bout of illness and the support of other students and family members during the two year programme. Grateful for the opportunity to have pursued the diploma programme, Beatrice is fully committed to using her newly acquired skills in the development of the youth of Belize.

The graduation was well supported by the graduates' immediate and extended family members, past and present tutors, colleagues and friends.