Tourism workshop prepares students for the world of work

By Melissa Bryant
Reporter~SKNVibes.com

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – HUNDREDS of fourth form students from secondary schools in St. Kitts yesterday (Oct. 9) attended a Motivational Workshop at the Ocean Terrace Inn, which was facilitated by the Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.

The Motivational Workshop, which is part of the third edition of the Annual Work Experience Programme (AWEP), was held in anticipation of students’ entry into the workplace.

The AWEP runs from October 13 to 16 and each student is guaranteed the opportunity to work for one day in a services-related company, including the St. Kitts Marriott and Royal Resort Casino and Greg’s Safari.

According to Lloyd Lazar, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, the workshop was a way to prepare the students so that they could maximise the benefits of the programme. 

“It is so important that young people recognise the opportunities that exist within the industry, whether they are in a technical, administrative or entrepreneurial sense.”

Maurice Widdowson, owner of Island Hopper and Caribelle Batik, echoed Lazar’s sentiments and added that “there seems to be a perception among Caribbean parents that only the professional jobs such as law and medicine are worthwhile, and they push their children towards those areas.

But many opportunities exist within the industry and if people continue to be unaware of this, these opportunities will be snatched up by foreigners, which would result in the marginalisation of our local population”.~~Adz:Right~~

Speeches were given by the Minister with Responsibility for Tourism, the Hon. Ricky Skerritt, Chairman of the Tourism Authority Board Alphonso O’Garro and Assistant Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism Diannelle Taylor, among others.

The possession of good work habits, including being a team player, having a positive attitude, and being punctual and respectful, was identified as an important component in being a star performer.

CEO of the Labour Party, Wanda Connor, stated that the programme is one “that engages minds to focus on tourism development and the contribution that they can make to it. It teaches them practical skills that will enhance their school performance and it gives them a glimpse into and exposes them to the work environment”.

Participating students will receive a certificate on conclusion of the programme and will write an essay detailing their work experience. Each school’s Guidance Counsellor will then choose a student to represent the school on media outings and to a visit with the Hon. Skerritt.