Imani programme to commence on June 1

THE third batch of Imani trainees will begin the programme as of June 1 and one course will not be offered as a means of ensuring that there isn’t an overkill of that skill in the market.

Youth Minister, Emmalin Pierre, has disclosed that cosmetology will no longer be offered as part of the Government training programme, but instead there will be a heavy focus on hos-pitality arts and agriculture sectors.

“When we look at the areas for great potential, we see a need for training in the hospitality sector, so we are going to focus on that industry along with agriculture,” said Pierre, during last week’s post-Cabinet briefing.

She further explained that all those who have applied to participate in the training will be called back for a second interview to review their present status and to identify areas of interest. Those who applied for training in areas that are not available will be encouraged to participate in programmes that are available.

The third batch is expected to be 1 000 young people between the ages of 16 and 35. The financial compensation for each trainee will vary based on qualification, but generally it’s between $700 and $900. Since the programme began last year, two batches of 1 000 trainees were admitted to the programme with a significant amount already gaining permanent employment, which has resulted in their names being removed from the list as a trainee.

However, because more than 300 have failed to comply with the regulations of the programme, they were terminated. No one who was terminated can return to the programme.

The Imani training is an 18-month Government programme aimed at providing young people with training in various careers, professions and skills with a view to making them become employable and marketable. (LS)