PHILIPSBURG:---- As part of the Training section of the K1 Britannia Work, Training, and Social Development (WTSD) Program, 8 teenagers participated in the four-week course given by The Media Lab of the Philipsburg Jubilee Library.
The WTSD program gives foster teenagers and teenagers under probationary measures aged 16 to 18 work experience placements, educational and practical training courses, ‘work-ready’ workshops and volunteer placements with social development organizations. The program aims to increase the employability of foster teenagers and teenagers on probationary measures on St. Maarten.
The workshops were very interactive and hands on where the instructors not only taught the topics at hand but also challenged the teenagers to think critically while writing their resume, building a budget and being safe online. They even gave advice that they felt the teenagers needed to better prepare for independent life once they reach eighteen. Instructors challenged the teenagers to try new things and test their abilities and encouraged them to always ask questions.
The workshops were very important because many participants have limited knowledge of IT, limited access to computers or smartphones and as a result have a low level of computer literacy.
The four-week course, each workshop being 3 hours covered topics such as Introduction to Computers, Microsoft Word Resume Building, Microsoft Excel Managing Finances and Online Safety.
Having successfully participated and completed the course, we believe having these basic IT skills will enable them to have the necessary requirements for most forms of contemporary employment. In addition, these basic skills are needed to create resumes, maintain personal financial records, and to conduct online searches for job opportunities.
The K1 Britannia Foundation thanks, all involved at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library and Media Lab such as Ms. Francine Housen and all instructors for taking the time and concern in sharing their knowledge and expertise to the teenagers. We are positive that the teenagers will apply what they learn at their prospective employments.
For more information about the K1 Britannia Foundation, the Work, Training, and Social Development Program and how you can get involved, visit www.k1britanniafoundation.org, www.facebook.com/K1SXM or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
