Last Updated on December 23, 2023, 5:16 AM AST by Anthony Morris
The ELEVATE Programme was launched on December 21, 2023, replacing the Alternative Lifestyle Pathway Programme (ALPP). The program aims to positively engage marginalized youth and adults by equipping them with technical skills to realize their full potential as citizens and partners in nation-building.
Naeemah Hazelle, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, welcomed guests to the official opening and emphasized the programme’s structured elements, which aim to address population challenges and promote increased inclusion in society.
The programme has three phases.
Phase one
The program offers training and certification in personnel.
Offers professional skills like :
- problem-solving
- communication.
- Time management.
- Teamwork.
It also provides technical and vocational skills, enhancing marketability and employability in various industries like
- information technology
- construction
- agriculture
- automotive
- healthcare.
A counsellor will be available to assist participants. Further training on solar panel production will be offered at a later date.
Phase two
Involves contracting for projects. This phase will expose participants to the rules of tendering, as well as how to write projects. Once qualified, the participants will be able to bid for public and private projects.
The third phase
Covers entrepreneurship. It will allow participants to explore entrepreneurship as a pathway to success. Business ownership training was at the top of the priorities listed by participants of ALPP.
Permanent Secretary Hazelle emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering individuals and communities through employment, entrepreneurship, and personal and professional development for better futures.
“The ELEVATE programme places a strong emphasis on creating opportunities for accountability and growth,” the permanent secretary added. Participants will be encouraged to take ownership of their actions and actively pursue personal and professional development,” added Secretary Hazelle
The ELEVATE programme is a government initiative aimed at positively impacting marginalized and at-risk individuals, with the hope of fostering change and a brighter future for all participants.
Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr Terrance Drew, stated that the ELEVATE training modules were specifically designed based on conversations with the participants. He highlighted that this was one strategy being developed by the Ministry of National Security to reduce antisocial behaviour.
A key component of the overall intervention involves addressing Violence and Crime from a Health Perspective. A task force is being formed to develop this innovative undertaking.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
