A wide cross section of children in Jamaica got a chance to voice their opinion on issues affecting them, learn new skills, and have fun at the Child Development Agency’s (CDA) National Children’s Summit recently held at the Jamaica Conference Centre in Kingston on August 21, 2014.

Themed, Creating Opportunities for Vulnerable children: Opening Doors to Securing a Brighter Future”, the Summit which is the brainchild of the agency’s Children’s Advisory Panel (CAP) was the first of its kind, and was intended to highlight the views of children, especially those who are in the care of the State on matters affecting them.

Giving the keynote address at the opening ceremony, Minister of Youth and Culture, Lisa Hanna lauded the CDA for staging such an important event, and encouraged the children to speak up about issues affecting them.

“I am here to speak with you, not at you, so don’t be shy about anything that you want to say. Your responsibility here today is not to be taken lightly. You are powerful, because it is your input that will inform and help to shape government policies and programmes,” the minister said.

Congratulating the team and CAP members for organising the event, Chief Executive Officer of the CDA, Rosalee Gage-Grey in her comments, said that the summit is a major achievement for the agency, and is also an important part of its 10th anniversary celebrations, currently being observed from June 2014 to May 2015.

“The management of the agency saw the need to have an event through which the organisation could engage children on the critical matter of child protection, as it moves to create a lasting legacy.

Encouraging the children to participate in the discussions and not to be afraid to speak up, and speak out boldly and respectfully, Gage-Grey stated that, “today is a day of adventure and fun, as well as learning new things. In the midst of deliberations and discussions, just enjoy yourselves”.

Giving an overview of the panel, established in July 2012, Chairman of the CAP Charles Young said that that the objective of the Summit is to create an environment in which children can interact and share their experiences and views on critical issues affecting them in Jamaica. It is also geared at making recommendations on how these issues can be addressed, as well as participating in programmes designed to enhance personal development.

“Children, in whatever discussions you join, embrace your youth, and make bold statements, while respecting the views of others. Let us interact together responsibly. Make the best of this fantastic and informative day, that we have tried our best to create for you,” the CAP Chair said.

Meanwhile, Child Ambassador, Office of the Children’s Registry, Kingston Region Diandra Dixon in her remarks, said that she is enthused to participate in such a historic event, and lauded the agency and CAP members for the pivotal role played in its execution.

“It is comforting to know that opportunities like these can be provided for us to share our opinions and experiences in a forum that will facilitate those being transmitted to policy-makers and their advisors. I am sure the staging of this event is a welcome opportunity for all present here this morning.

Emcee Emprezz Golding in her opening remarks also commended the agency and CAP for organising the summit, which she said gives a voice to children in Jamaica.

“Children, I want you to make the most of today, because all of this is being organised for you. You are very special, so take charge of the day, and let you voices be heard. I am also encouraging you to be agents of change, and reach for the stars,” she encouraged the children.