One hundred and thirty-six women graduated from programs aimed at giving them adequate skills to become employed or to become entrepreneurs.

These programs were developed by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Taiwan Technical Mission under the Women’s Empowerment Initiative.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony on May 26th, 2022, at the Kingstown Baptist Church, Director of the Adult and Continuing Education Department, Kathleen Jeffers explained that the Women’s Empowerment Project programs aims to “develop our women as entrepreneurs gain employment and include financial assistance for sustainability.”

Jeffers said it was necessary for the project to be exclusive to women targeting the unemployed and vulnerable.

The programs ran for a duration of six (6) weeks, starting on 28th March and ending on 17th May. In total, there were three (3) programs offered; Beauty Therapy, Computer Skills and House Keeping.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Myccle Burke pointed out that the project comes at an appropriate time when “women need to be empowered, stressing that education provides an avenue to display resilience and ensures development”.

The Permanent Secretary applauded the generosity of the Republic of China on Taiwan in assisting Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in developing its’ people through education.

Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) His Excellency, Peter Sha-li Lan said that the purpose of the Women’s Empowerment Program “is to assist our friends here in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, especially women, to face the challenge of COVID-19 and volcanic eruption.” His Excellency pledged the support of the Republic of China on Taiwan in continuing this initiative with Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Guest Speaker and Owner, Bamboo Spa, Kathleen Wright congratulated the graduates on their achievement. Wright encouraged the women to maintain a balanced lifestyle and stay focused on their goals.

SOURCE: Agency For Public Information