The Government Informa-tion Agency (GINA) said in a release that over 250 single parents congregated at the Umana Yana, Kingston where they were presented with their economic assistance grants to start their businesses.
The graduates who were trained through the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) are entitled to $60,000 worth of equipment in their respective areas of training, GINA stated.
Meanwhile, Minister Priya Manickchand took time out to recognise the lone male, Rudra Chinapen, who was trained under the single parent programme and she said he should be celebrated as the perfect example of a good, responsible father.
And during brief remarks, Kamlawattie Rampersaud, who received training in cosmetology, expressed profound appreciation to the Ministry of Human Services for such a thoughtful programme which she said fulfilled her life-long dream.
“I became a cosmetologist because of the Ministry of Human Services’ single parent programme. It was always my dream but it could not have come through because of circumstances.”
Proprietor of Nayelli’s Cosmetology School, Bibi Rahim, who facilitated the training of some of the women, said she was quite pleased to be given the opportunity to be part of the programme.
Minister Manickchand noted that her ministry is tasked with looking after persons from vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, children and single parents who are weakened due to various circumstances.
She said government has recognised that single parents are persons who can make meaningful contributions to the country.
“We give daycare assistance to working mothers and we have trained those who need work…Now this grant will allow you to utilise your training meaningfully.”
She added that government’s dream is to empower women to lead lives that are significantly enhanced for them and their children.
