Work To Continue On Global Services Skills Project

A sum of $710.2 million is earmarked to continue work under the Government’s Global Services Skills Project, during fiscal year 2022/23.

Details of the provision are outlined in the 2022/23 Estimates of Expenditure, now before the House of Representatives.

The project, which commenced in January 2019 and is being implemented by Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), aims to promote growth in the global services sector (GSS) locally, particularly the higher value-added segments.

It specifically intends to provide the sector with better skilled workers and increase Jamaica’s institutional capacity to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and increase imports.

Achievements up to December 2021 include commencement of a GSS 2021 internship programme, activation of GSS 2020 pilot programme, development of an industry skills upgrade strategy, and commencement of online content developer consultancy to support partner agency HEART-NSTA Trust.

Targets for 2022/23 include commencement of training for 6,000 new entrants by HEART in the enhanced job readiness and digital skills curricula, completion of GSS 2021 apprenticeship programme and commencement of the 2022 edition, and implementation of a GSS information platform.

An additional $810.2 million is earmarked for programmed engagements in 2023/24.

The project, which runs until January 2024, is being financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).