The Government of Saint Lucia has renewed its commitment to youth empowerment, with Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre outlining a plan to support young people through new policies, sport and community programmes.
Speaking during the 2026/2027 Budget presentation in the House of Assembly, the Prime Minister said, “Youth development remains a national priority for my administration.”
He noted that significant investments have already been made, adding, “In this term, we are committed to placing an even greater emphasis on youth development.”
One key part of the government’s plan is the National Youth Policy 2025/2030. The Prime Minister said this policy, approved by the cabinet, gives clear guidelines for youth empowerment in eight main areas, such as education, jobs, health, safety and climate resilience.
“This policy marks an important step towards ensuring that youth development remains integrated into broader national planning and decision-making processes,” Pierre said.
He stressed the importance of a well-rounded approach to youth development. The government plans to use sports to support young people’s social, economic and health needs. He also said the administration will “enhance the capacity of the Ministry of Youth Development and sports to develop programs in collaboration with youth agencies”.
Sport continues to play a central role in the government’s youth agenda. The Prime Minister pointed to the success of the semi-professional football and cricket leagues, saying, “We are encouraged by the success of the semi-professional football and cricket leagues,” and confirmed that the government “will continue to provide resources to improve on the outcomes”.
He pointed out that these leagues create opportunities for “positive engagement, self-development, crime prevention, employment and opportunity”, while also serving as a pathway for recruitment into higher-level competition.
He also talked about the wider benefits of sport, saying it “continues to serve as both a developmental and European force among the youth,” and helps build discipline, teamwork, and healthy habits. The ministry will keep focusing on grassroots efforts and plans to “promote grassroots level, school-based athletics and community sporting programmes for early talent identification”.
In addition to sport, the government is moving to strengthen mentorship and guidance for young people, revealing plans to “develop and implement a comprehensive youth mentorship program with local organisations and community leaders,” aimed at supporting personal growth and development.
Other plans include establishing a national strength-training gym for athletes and launching cultural programs to strengthen national identity. The government also wants to work on a youth education and awareness project to promote Saint Lucia’s cultural heritage, such as traditional dance and song.
The Prime Minister also highlighted infrastructure plans, announcing that the George Odlum stadium will be refurbished this year to “return it to its rightful owners, the athletes of St Lucia”. The government will keep maintaining and upgrading sports facilities across the country so communities have good places for recreation and training.
Pierre said these upgrades will include “the installation of sport and equipment at various sporting facilities to support the different sporting disciplines”, so athletes across the island will have better resources to train and compete.
