Forty-five people were trained recently as part of the Registration Apprenticeship Training Employment and Development Programme, government announced.
The RATED Programme — which is designed to promote career development — asked local experts to facilitate sessions focused on various job sectors, according to acting Premier’s Office Permanent Secretary Elvia Smith-Maduro.
“We have business owners in different disciplines — such as construction, agriculture, electrical work and landscaping — who will equip persons with information about the functions of the various industries and the process of opening businesses in those fields,” she said.
Presenters
In sessions led by Akeem Lennard from Greencrete BVI, participants were exposed to the construction industry.
“They also learnt about the use of using recyclable products in construction in alignment with the government of the Virgin Islands’ commitment to environmental preservation,” Ms. Smith-Maduro said.
Josette Hendrickson, acting director of the Public Works Department, presented on opportunities that exist within her department. Arona’s Marketplace owner Arona Fahie-Forbes, who is the former acting chief agricultural officer, spoke about job opportunities in agriculture.
Brian Davis, acting director of the Water and Sewerage Department, provided information on apprenticeship options in his agency, while Ronson Barry of Barry’s Electrical Limited demonstrated how to perform electrical installations.
More training
Following the training, officials hope to pair participants with apprenticeship opportunities Ms. Smith-Maduro said.
“We are committed to facilitating additional training sessions of a similar nature, and will be partnering with H. Lavity Stoutt Community College to provide training in the areas,” she added.
The overall objective of the RATED Programme is to provide temporary employment relief, apprenticeship opportunities, and career development while also enhancing the capacity of the territory’s human resources, according to government.