25 graduate from YES training programme

The annual Young Employee Socialisation Training Programme, which came to an end on Monday, August 17, saw the graduation of twenty-five youths, who should now be better equipped for the world of employment.{{more}}

The Eastern Caribbean Institute of Banking and Financial Services (ECIBFS) organized the training programme, which is in its fourth year of operation, with sponsorship from the Bank of Nova Scotia and the Rotary Club (SVG). It aims to prepare young people for the world of work by educating them on matters such as personal development, money management, writing winning job letters and curriculum vitaes, management philosophies and values, the Caribbean Single Market Economy and Labour Relations, amongst others.

President of the ECIBFS Errol Allen urged the participants to fully utilize the information they had gleaned from the training programme, and to cultivate a desire to always learn new things. “Strive to be part of a continuing learning process!”

Allen pointed out that in this climate of global economic difficulty, employees have to equip themselves with as much knowledge and skill as possible in order to remain relevant in the workplace.

Basil Alexander, Manager of the Bank of Nova Scotia, expressed the financial institution’s eagerness to sponsor such ventures that contribute to youth development. “We care about our future!” He encouraged the participants to take the training programme seriously because a lot of effort goes into organizing it each year.

Alexander also warned the graduates to prepare for full-time employment as much as they possibly can because it is vastly different from what they have experienced at school.

Kirk Da Silva, President of the Rotary Club of St. Vincent, also gave brief remarks. He pressed upon participants to maintain their enthusiasm and determination for getting ahead in life despite the negative stereotypes that are often attributed to the youth.

Two graduates were presented with awards for being the Most Outstanding Participant – namely Joanna Reece (Rotary Club award) and Olden Thomas (ECIBFS award). They received cheques amounting to EC$250 each.

In opening remarks, 2008 graduate Godfrey Matthews extolled the benefits of the training programme and the ways in which it is helping him to advance his career.

Cheryl Rodriguez, local Coordinator and Chairperson of the graduating ceremony, beseeched other institutions to do their part in moulding young minds. She reminded the participants that employees are no longer able to get by on academic achievements solely. “Academic qualifications do not necessarily guarantee professional excellence…”

In closing, Rodriguez left them with words of encouragement: “I implore you to practice what you learnt here… have confidence in yourselves, set goals… stay focused!”(JSV)