Young Persons Attend Steps-To-Work Summer Camp

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security continues to invest in the nation’s most vulnerable youth, providing some $10 million for its annually staged Steps-To-Work Summer Camp.

Slated to last for three weeks, the camp  will see some 200 young persons across the island participating in various camp activities,  aimed at  preparing them to be reintegrated into the formal education system and labour market.

The campers are currently enrolled in the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH).

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Colette Roberts Risden, who delivered the keynote address at the opening of the camp, held at the YWCA  School Leavers Institute on Arnold Road, in Kingston, on August 10, said the Steps-to-Work programme is an important part of the Ministry’s overall strategy for our vulnerable citizens.

“The camp represents the Ministry’s investment in the future of these 200 participants. PATH is founded on the principle that the way out of poverty is to be healthy and educated. Through education, perseverance and hard work, you can achieve this,” she said.

For the duration of the camp, participants will be introduced to various vocations, including barbering, food preparation, cosmetology, nail technology, electrical installation, plumbing and a number of other skills.

The campers will also be taught Mathematics and English as well as activities to assist in personal development, such as sports, drama and cultural literacy.

She encouraged the campers to make the most of the opportunity to advance in their chosen career paths.

“I urge you to use this summer camp as a stepping stone to move from where you are to a position of strength and to secure your future. I urge you to take responsibility for your future by focusing on the positives of this summer experience,” Mrs. Roberts Risden said.

The camp, which is in its seventh year, is organized by the Ministry with support from the Ministry of Education, the National Youth Service (NYS) and the HEART Trust/ NTA.

Another camp is being held at the Maldon High School in St. James, and will be attended by participants from the parishes of St. James, Hanover and St. Elizabeth.