STUDENTS EMBRACE CSME

(CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana) The first batch of students who participated in the recently launched project ‘Students Engaging the CSME through Field Promotions’ have lauded the practical, more hands-on approach to learning about the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).

The groups of 20 students each from Belize, Suriname and Dominica who participated in the initiative described it as a wonderful idea and one that should be continued. The enthusiasm for the project was exhibited by all students and expressed during receptions held on their behalf in host countries Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Jamaica.

Mr. Ivor Carryl, Programme Manager of the CARICOM Secretariat CSME Unit, also expressed satisfaction that the objectives of this year’s Field Promotions were achieved.

While in the host countries, the students met key personnel in public and private sector organisations and learned more about the workings of the CSME. In addition to the educational component of the Field Promotions, the students also had the opportunity of sampling the culinary and cultural delights of each host country.

The project, which was administered by the CARICOM Secretariat, was facilitated through the financial support from the 9th European Development Fund (EDF) Caribbean Integration Support Programme (CISP). Its objective was to engage the next generation in identifying career opportunities in wage employment, self employment and starting a business within the CSME.

Now that the initial Field Promotions have been completed, each student will write a report as well as make presentations to their peers in their home country in an effort to ensure as many people as possible benefit from the exercise.

The activities are part of the CARICOM Secretariat’s Public Education Programme and will continue next year with young people from nine other CARICOM Member States participating in the project.