In commemoration of World Population Day 2016, the United Nations Population Fund and the UN System in Trinidad and Tobago, in collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister, Tobago House of Assembly, Ministries of Planning and Development, Sport and Youth Affairs, Social Development and Family Services, and members of civil society held a forum for youth, government officials, civil society and representatives from the UN on the issue of Investing in Teenage Girls to address teenage pregnancy.

Over the years, World Population Day has been observed by employing strategic and innovative approaches to raise awareness on important population and development issues, such as teenage pregnancy.

Addressing the gathering, the Honourable Ayanna Webster-Roy, Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister, placed emphasis on organisations and citizens working together to curb teenage pregnancy. She stated that “It is very much critical that organisations and individuals across the world continue to expand and deepen as we all share the common vision to see all teenage girls and children enjoy equal access to every opportunity provided for them to have a successful life”. Her Excellency, Reema Carmona, also addressed the audience and encourage students.

The World Population Day commemoration continued with an open forum where students were given the opportunity to discuss and give recommendations to curb teenage pregnancy.

Mrs. Aurora Noguera- Ramkissoon, Liaison Officer, UNFPA presents Minister Webster- Roy with a token of appreciation