More than a dozen students from the Ann Hill School had much to celebrate on Wednesday, as they completed their 12 weeks of training under the Pathways Employability Programme.
In a brief ceremony at the Courtyard by Marriott, Hastings, principal Emelda Bell congratulated the 16 students for completing the programme, which was aimed at bolstering their skill sets and preparing them to enter the workforce.
“We were excited to get involved,” she said. “This version of the employability programme was designed specifically with our children in mind, to provide our Upper Fifth students of Ann Hill School with an opportunity to develop some soft skills to strengthen the skills which are essential for the world of work. We want to give them every opportunity possible for success in our society.
“Students participated in interactive sessions which focused on teamwork; communication; work ethics; workplace etiquette; money management and budgeting. In addition to listening to key points, students had opportunities to ask questions, to share their perspective, and also share prior knowledge.”
She also noted that the programme served as a timely reminder that students with special needs are still far too often left behind, and thus, initiatives such as the Pathways programme serve a key purpose in helping to bridge that gap.
“In our society, sometimes our students are the last ones picked,” said Principal Belle. “Sometimes they do not have a voice, and as we work together and come here as teachers, parents, students, I am deeply heartened by the opportunity to witness our students in this celebration this morning for their hard work.”
Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment Charles Griffith, also offered his congratulations as he encouraged the students to keep pursuing further forms of training to help them on their journey from the classroom.
Addressing the students he said: “This is a morning where we are celebrating you, you will get your certificates that you worked hard for, but it cannot be the end of the road for you. You must find ways to tap into all of our programmes at the ministry. Don’t believe that this is the only programme you can benefit from.”
(SB)
