Disadvantaged youths in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are expected to benefit from two projects set up here last week by the Organization of American States (OAS), prompting a visit from the organization’s Secretary General.{{more}}

Last Friday, a 15-member delegation headed by Jose Miguel Insulza arrived here for the launching of the local chapter of the Young Americas Business Trust (YABT) and the Trust of the Americas Youth at Risk Project.

The Youth at Risk Project is intended to train young persons coming from a background of poverty, violence and inequality.

The training is intended to guide the youngsters as to how to set up businesses and also to promote new business among youth.

The initiative was set up in collaboration with Microsoft, CISCO and the Canadian Government.

At the YABT business lab, persons will be trained as trainers, in an effort to guide the prospective young entrepreneurs in the areas of proper entrepreneurial skills.

Through both projects, participants will be trained in, among other things, information technology, job readiness, and civic education. Speaking at the launching of the projects, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves welcomed the initiatives, and said that the projects will help the youth to be better prepared for the competitive world.

Insulza, at a press conference on Independence Day October 27th, commended the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, saying that he was impressed with the country’s economic growth, and said that the projects will equip local youths with the skills needed to make them more marketable in today’s changing employment environment.

The Secretary General also participated in activities to celebrate the country’s Independence before leaving. (JJ)