By Lamin Omar
As the Chief Patron of The President’s International Award (PIA) Programme in The Gambia, President Barrow Tuesday presided over The Gambia’s 10th National Gold Awards Ceremony held at the Never Again Memorial Arch, Banjul.
The initiative seeks to instil in the Awardees a feeling of civic duty and patriotism so that they can improve the lives of others and do their part to advance our country.
“For many years now, the Award Programme, also known as the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, has equipped young persons with opportunities through well-structured programmes designed to boost the moral standing, skills, and knowledge of its participants.
It has challenged them as well to explore and exploit new opportunities and make the most of their talent and potential to excel,” the President said.
President Barrow underscored that his government recognises the PIA’s contribution to improving youth participation in national development and, in general, boosting many people’s lives.
“I have noted that some former programme participants and Gold Award Holders are proudly in our midst, serving as Ministers, Service Chiefs, Academics, Entrepreneurs, Diplomats, and so on. We are proud of all of you and the various roles you now play in advancing the affairs of our dear motherland,” President Barrow noted.