This morning, during a ceremony at the School of Art (Scol di Arte) in San Nicolas, participants of the 20th group of Social Formation (SVT-20) received their certificates, marking an important moment after a journey characterized by discipline, perseverance, and preparation for their future.
Prime Minister Mike Eman, together with the Minister of Health, Social Affairs, Elderly Care, and Addiction Management Mervin Wyatt-Ras, Member of Parliament Jennifer Arends-Reyes, and other guests, were present to accompany the youth during this special moment, alongside family members, friends, representatives of the Marine Barracks (Marinierskazerne) in Savaneta, and those who guided them throughout the program.
During his speech, Prime Minister Eman expressed his satisfaction and pride in the youth who completed the journey. He highlighted that each participant reached a moment in their life where they made an important decision: to put themselves first, accept a challenge, and persevere to create more opportunities for themselves.
According to the Prime Minister, Social Formation precisely holds the value of providing an additional opportunity to youth who are in a crucial phase of their development and are still looking for direction for their professional and personal future.
Eman also recognized the important role of parents, family, and friends who supported the participants during their journey, as well as the guidance and discipline provided by the professionals and facilitators associated with Social Formation and the Savaneta Marine Barracks.
A special word of thanks went to the Navy for its continuous cooperation with the program. Eman emphasized that the support of the Marine Barracks is an important element in the training and guidance that the youth receive.
Today’s ceremony also holds particular significance considering that Social Formation started in Aruba in 2010, during Mike Eman’s first term as Prime Minister, in cooperation with the Dutch Ministry of Defense. With SVT-20, the program continues to provide youth with an opportunity to work on discipline, responsibility, personal development, and preparation.
Prime Minister Eman reaffirmed the Government’s support for the continuity of Social Formation, recognizing the impact the program can have precisely at a time when a young person determines the next step in their life.
The certificate presentation crowns the sacrifice and dedication of the participants, but at the same time represents the beginning of the next stage. With the experience and tools they gained during SVT-20, they move forward with a stronger foundation to determine their own future.
“We are proud of you. Congratulations and keep up the same spirit and motivation,” was Prime Minister Eman’s message to the youth.
