More than 200 summer apprentices are being deployed into the workforce through the Public Service Summer Apprenticeship Programme. The college and high school aged students have received placements across Ministries, Departments, Statutory Agencies and businesses within the private sector.

This year’s apprentices were orientated across two sessions facilitated by the Department of Human Resources, through the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute and focused on providing the students with necessary knowledge and guidance and they begin their transition into the working world. Discussions centred around expectations in the Public Service, maintaining professionalism             

During the orientations, the apprentices heard remarks from Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, Deputy Governor, Mr. David D. Archer, Jr., Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor Ms. Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome, MBE and officials from the Government of the Virgin Islands. The students were encouraged to approach their placements with purpose and professionalism, and to view the experience as a starting point to a rewarding and fulfilling career in public service. The programme is being administered in collaboration with the Department of Labour and Workforce Development and saw Labour Commissioner (Ag.) Mr. Mervin Hasting provide remarks to the attendees pledging his full support to these initiatives which strengthen and bolster the future of the Public Service.

Deputy Governor, Mr. David D. Archer, Jr., highlighted the significance of the programme for the Territory, he said, "The Public Service Summer Apprenticeship Programme is a testament to the Government of the Virgin Islands' unwavering commitment to investing in our young people. These students represent the future of our Territory, and it is our responsibility to ensure they are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and experience they need to lead. I encourage each apprentice to make the most of this opportunity, to ask questions, to observe, to learn, and to bring their best to every day of their placement.”

As part of their placements, students become full members of staff and receive a paid stipend for the duration of the programme, in addition to a certificate of completion upon successfully finishing their apprenticeship.

Deputy Director of Human Resources (Ag.), Ms. Cara Christopher said that the Public Service Summer Apprenticeship Programme is a longstanding and important source of valuable experience for students preparing to enter the workforce. “Every year, we are proud to welcome students into the Public Service and create pathways for them into the private sector. Working experiences like these, where students understudy and learn from seasoned professionals allow them to gain a full understanding of the responsibilities and expectations of the professional environments they are preparing to enter as adults.”

Director of the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute, Dr. Connie E. George emphasised the Institute's commitment to preparing young people for the demands of professional life. "The Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute is dedicated to developing the next generation of public servants and contributing to the growth of our Territory's workforce. This programme is one of the most impactful ways we can engage our young people, exposing them to the realities of professional environments and instilling in them the values of service, integrity, and excellence. We are excited to see what each of these 217 apprentices will accomplish, not just this summer, but throughout their careers."

The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed to creating meaningful opportunities for young people and fostering the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of the Territory

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