A skills/vocational training programme has been launch-ed to empower youths of Annandale and Lusignan, as part of the Community Action Component (CAC) of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) funded Citizens’ Security Programme (CSP).
The objective is to equip them with a skill so that they can make their contribution in the development of their respective communities, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.
The programme which will see the participation of 51 students is the first of its kind in both communities.
The students will be tutored in such skills as electronics, information technology, mechanics, cosmetology, welding and joinery, GINA stated.
And Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee in his address last Friday urged the trainees to take full advantage of the opportunity to improve themselves.
“The idea is to give you a life skill that will lead to your own personal growth and development,” Rohee is quoted by GINA as saying.
He pointed out that depending on their commitment to the programme, they can all emerge as successful entrepreneurs.
Community Action Spe-cialist Roseanne Purnwasie who spearheaded the formation of the Community Action Councils and overall implementation of the programme, said that personal development classes will also be offered to benefit persons who need upgrading in English and Mathematics.
Moreover, basic conflict resolution and violence prevention skills training will be included in the programme, GINA added.
Meanwhile, basic tools (cosmetology and welding kits) and stipends were presented to the trainees and child care allowances were given to single mothers, who are also part of the programme.
The goal of the CAC is to assist communities to become sustainable in their function as a neighbourhood in which all persons are included in the creation of a safe environment and young people are provided with opportunities that will prevent them from participating in criminal and violent activities. It is designed to particularly target school dropouts between the ages of 14-25, GINA added.
