One hundred and eighty-four (184) young people gathered at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College today for orientation under the Offering National Support for Internship, Training and Employment (ON-SITE) Programme.
Now in its fourth year, the annual initiative is a collaboration between the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Republic of China (Taiwan).
Ambassador of Taiwan, H.E. Fiona Huei-Chun Fan, praised the programme’s focus on youth empowerment, likening it to the popular YES initiative.
“Your selection is a recognition of your potential. Seek guidance, embrace challenges, and lead with curiosity and purpose—this is your time to grow,” she told the interns.
Minister of Finance, Hon. Camillo Gonsalves, highlighted ON-SITE’s role in creating real employment.
“A number of interns have already gained permanent jobs through this programme. It’s one of several options available to our youth,” he said.
He cited other government initiatives including:
SET and YES Programmes – providing internship opportunities within government;
GYVE – supporting youth volunteers with stipends;
PRYME – offering startup funding for young entrepreneurs;
Scholarship support – ensuring every university applicant receives assistance.
Former intern Cyon Kydd, now permanently employed, shared his success story and encouraged the new cohort to make the most of their opportunity.
The orientation includes soft skills development, professional growth sessions, and occupational health and safety training.