During the recently concluded Strategic Economic Plan (SEP) 2012-2022 workshop held at Westin Resort, he contributions by the nation’s youth were the highlight.
Youths highlighted the importance of such a strategic plan for their future and that Sint Maarten should take responsibility for its environment and create a positive setting for both tourists and inhabitants. This was the main message that the students presented during their closing speech, resulting in a loud applause from the attending crowd.
The youth gave the government a clear statement on their vision about their future in Sint Maarten. The follow-up series of workshops will take place in May 2012. The passionate involvement of the youths will once again be highly expected. They proved, without any doubt, that change is upon us!
The first workshop brought together representatives of the public sector, private sector and students of all secondary schools, who gave their vision on where Sint Maarten should be in 2022. The students positively surprised the attendees with bright, innovative and green ideas regarding national economic development and social aspects of the country.
The Sint Maarten Government supported by KPMG Advisory Services B.V. is in the process of developing a SEP for the country.
This is to ensure a vision for the coming 10 years to achieve a sustainable increase in the economy and in the standard of living for all citizens. All stakeholders, including the youths, were invited to give their input for the development of this plan.
The active participation of the youths is vital for the success, given that in 2022, they will be the ones who will need to adopt the vision and goals we set today.
"The workshop is essential in grasping the opportunities of the future for the people of Sint Maarten. We want to build a quality society where the hopes, dreams and aspirations of the Sint Maarten people and the youth are key to national economic development," Minister of Tourism & Economic Affairs Hon. Franklin Meyers said on Sunday.