By Aabigayle McIntosh

During a Sunday church service commemorating the 42nd anniversary of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, Chief of Defence Staff Colonel Telbert Benjamin reiterated the persistent calls for the Ministry of Education to extend the Antigua and Barbuda National Cadet Corps (ABNCC) program to encompass all public schools across the island.

Colonel Benjamin emphasized that the Cadet Corps initiative presents a distinctive prospect for authorities to engage and redirect young individuals before they potentially veer onto a troubled trajectory.

The ABNCC is a voluntary youth organization that welcomes students aged 12 to 19 in Antigua and Barbuda.

As an integral facet of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, its core objective revolves around delivering training and fostering personal development among youth through a combination of military and community-based endeavors.

The comprehensive training provided by the Cadet Corps is designed to cultivate a sense of responsibility and leadership, aspiring to mold young men and women into exemplary citizens. Colonel Benjamin unveiled his ambitious plan to expand the Cadet Corps and its comprehensive range of activities in the upcoming year of 2024.

This strategic move aligns with the overarching goal of channeling the energy and potential of the youth toward positive growth and development.Top of Form

“Some of these activities include Cadets traveling to Cumbria, regional camps, and extending the annual summer camp to the general public,” Thomas said.