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  by pltm
• Aug 29, 2022
• 2

(PLTM) - The closing ceremony of the annual summer program for children organized by the Virgin Gorda Fishermen Cooperative (VGFC) was hosted at Fisher’s Cove in Virgin Gorda. was held on Friday, August 26.

It was reportedly a successful summer program that allowed children to hone their skills in and around the sea. This is an especially important component of education in the Virgin Islands, since the ocean is essential to its environment and economy. In addition, the Virgin Islands also possess 200 nautical miles that falls under its stewardship.

Julie Swartz, the main swim instructor and one of the coordinators of the program was awarded for her service and dedication to the program over the last 21 years.

In an interview with BVI Platinum News, Swarts noted that “The program consists of learning to swim for kids between the ages of 4 through 17. They have several weeks of swimming, snorkeling and diving in collaboration with other partners. It then concludes with fishing for between 100-200 kids every year.”

She continued by saying that “The kids are the real honourees. I have multi-generations of children in the program- there are several instances of me teaching parents, their children and their nieces and nephews to swim. It is very rewarding.”

Premier Wheatley in his remarks stated that “We certainly have the capacity to increase our food production, but it will require us investing in our young people. As you know, young people are an investment. If you want to invest in the future, you have to have programs like this one.”

He also commented that the program was essential in orienting young persons in the fishing industry, which they can potentially choose in terms of a profession.

“But not just that, it is about them building their character, it’s about them having a good time,” he said

Premier Wheatley also asserted that since the programme is in its 21st year, it demonstrated that the VGFC is committed to the youth through its commendable consistency and interest in the development of future generations.