Fifteen women from Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara last Thursday received certificates after completing a skills training programme in floral arrangements at a graduation ceremony.

The six weeks’ course was a collaboration between the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara) Administration. According to the region’s news release, the programme was conducted every Thursday afternoon with the women whose ages ranged between 20 to 35 years old and were all married.

The graduates were addressed by Regional Chairman Julius Faerber who commended the women and urged them to continue in their quest to empower themselves. He said, “…I get the feeling that the old saying that women’s place is in the home is no longer applicable… this is a sure sign that says women can contribute significantly (both financially and otherwise) towards the development of not only themselves but also their families.”

The skills training course was facilitated by Lynette Mc Koy.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Dhanrajie Hemraj said they were all excited. She mentioned too that even the husbands were excited about the programme and encouraged them to go out to the class. She added, “Indeed we are very happy for we know that we can rise to the challenges ahead of us.”