View press release details.

Over one hundred young persons who have just received training from the National Skills Development Centre under the OECS Skills for Inclusive Growth Project are currently attached to various business houses where they are undergoing a four month period of apprenticeship.

The trainees received four months of technical training from various local competent Training Providers in five specific skill areas related to the Hospitality and Construction Industries.  The specific areas of training included Commis Chef, Food and Beverage Service with particular emphasis on Restaurant Server, Housekeeping, Tour-guiding and Electrical Installation.

Upon successful completion of their apprenticeship, the trainees will receive a vocational qualification certificate that is regionally accepted.  It is also anticipated that the business houses will incorporate the trainees into their staff structure.   

According to the Project Manager for the OECS Skills for Inclusive Growth Project, Mrs. Faith Jn. Baptiste, the second phase of the project is expected to commence in June 2011.  Mrs. Jn. Baptiste notes that the project is anticipating that well qualified and competent Training Providers with the necessary facilities will once again make their expertise available to provide the necessary instruction to trainees.

During the second round, it is expected that persons will receive training in twenty-three specific skills which fall under the four broad occupational areas of Agriculture, Construction, Hospitality and Information Communication Technology. 

The OECS Skills for Inclusive Growth Project is implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Culture, the Ministry of Finance, Economic Affairs and National Development and the National Skills Development Centre.  This project is funded by the Government of St. Lucia and the World Bank.