Saint Lucia is embarking on a landmark skills training initiative set to equip over 100 young people with the qualifications needed to excel within the hospitality industry.

The initiative, a collaboration between Monroe College and the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP), aims to educate individuals on the principals, standards and fundamentals of the industry. The comprehensive course of study will in turn enable them to further their careers in the given field. Coordinators also see the program as one which will aid in helping to fulfill the human resource needs solicited by properties on the island.

Dr. Alex Ephrem, the Senior Vice President of Monroe College explains: “The program has five different modules. The modules are chosen according to the interest of the people. We are providing housekeeping, food and beverage, bar tending, front office and events planning. These are the most popular ones. We will be doing culinary in the future but right now we are focusing on these ones and students according to their skill and according to their interests they will select one of these modules and we will train them. But of course we will also give them a total global outlook of what this industry is all about.”

He said the programme’s focus is to provide young people the opportunity for gainful employment.

“The program includes a theoretical, practical and internship component. We will also arrange for them to set up interviews with the cruise lines and the hoteliers. The Government of Saint Lucia will work with us to arrange all of these things. The focus is to get the young people off the street, to learn and use their skills, to get jobs, and become model citizens.”

Dr. Ephrem urges all young people to take advantage of all educational and career based opportunities that are offered to them.

“You do not see opportunities like this offered in too many places. Grab them with both hands as they will benefit you, your family, and your country.”