August 17, 2010 -- The President's Award programme, which is celebrating its 10th year, has had a positive impact on the community and has encouraged the spirit of volunteerism.

At the launch of the Award Week on 12th August, International Conference Centre, Minister Vincent Meriton of Community Development, Youth and Sport, urged young people to join the President's Award and contribute to the country's development.

The week's theme is "After a decade of volunteerism, more determined".

Mr Meriton said there are still places for more youths, young graduates and students who are not active in community life to join the programme and help the country progress.

He noted that programme has helped many young Seychellois to discover and develop their talents and skills in academic, sporting and cultural activities, as well as community services.

The launch coincided with International Year of Youth celebrated on the same day under the theme  "Dialogue and Mutual Understanding".

Minister Meriton said any programme like the President's Award may face difficulties and challenges, but here these obstacles have been transformed into opportunities. He said by taking part in international forums and activities associated with the programme, young people have been exposed to the outside world and have widened their knowledge.

Over the last decade many young people aged between 14 and 25 have followed the programme, which is divided into gold, silver and bronze awards.