For the first time in over a decade, students from the primary and secondary schools across Antigua and Barbuda will march through the streets of St. John’s today as part of the National Youth Rally.
The National Youth Rally is one of the featured activities leading to the country’s 41st anniversary of Independence.
Hundreds of the nation’s youths, adorned in their school uniforms, will gather for a day of fun and fair competitions, in basic and special drills, cheerleading and disc jockeying.
This year’s event will return to the Antigua Recreation Grounds (ARG).
It is also a special moment this year as it marks the return of the event after a two-year break.
Dwayne Fleming, the 100m CARIFTA gold medalist, will receive the third eyes right by students on Redcliffe Street.
This is the first time in the history of the decades-old event that a third eyes right will be given.
The first eyes right is accepted by the governor general.
With the Double Decker stand now demolished, concerns about seating for the youngsters have arisen, but measures have been implemented to ensure the students’ comfort.
In the past, one hundred secondary and forty primary school students were accepted from each school. This year, however, only sixty secondary and thirty primary students will be allowed to participate.