Students participating in the Pathway Employability Programme, which is designed to prepare them for the world of work, have been encouraged to grasp the opportunity.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment, Charles Griffith, speaking to the new cohort on Wednesday, at his Ministry’s Sky Mall, Haggatt Hall, headquarters, highlighted the importance of being selected to be a part of the course.
“You’re the lucky ones here today. Why am I saying that? This programme is usually over-subscribed, but you are the ones who were selected to be part of this process. And I want to implore you to make the most of this particular opportunity; I need for you to become a sponge,” Minister Griffith stated.
He urged participants to absorb all the valuable information that they would receive from the expert facilitators throughout the training programme.
The Pathway Employability Programme is a four-month developmental programme, which caters to young people aged 18 to 24, and provides them with soft and life skills. It has an eight-week job attachment work experience component.
Mr. Griffith also underscored the importance of acquiring essential skills through the initiative, stating: “Employment on the island is a major problem for young people; this programme equips you with skills that others may lack.”
He said businesses often contacted the Ministry to seek candidates for employment, and advised that by honing their skills through the programme they would be “a step ahead of the game”.
Minister Griffith assured participants that the programme would equip them with the ability to deliver outstanding customer service and leave a lasting impression in any workplace.
“When you walk into any interview room, you will be comfortable and well-prepared. Make the most of this opportunity and let this year be one that counts for something,” he said.