ASSAMBA
MINISTER OF Tourism and Industry, Aloun N'Dombet Assamba, says government is preparing a policy framework for enterprise development to assist youth and strengthen the micro business sector.
She says developing young entrepreneurs will improve the country's competitiveness in the global economy and as such strengthening the micro business will be the focus of the government this year.
"It is essential that we understand how the global economy is evolving to compete in this global market," Mrs. Assamba said.
"Partnerships between government and business should prepare employees to operate in a competitive 21st century."
Mrs. Assamba was speaking at the Jamaica Employers' Federation (JEF) 'Evening of Excellence' award gala on Tuesday at the Little Theatre in Kingston.
She says the globe has made an irreversible change over the last two decades that can only be cushioned by youth training and development in the areas of information technology and entrepreneurship.
As such, she says, social changes need to be made including more emphasis on the competence of employees in information technology.
Meanwhile, the JEF honoured some 62 employees, companies and young entrepreneurs who have embraced the Heart Trust NTA's technical training and vocational certification programme, to end its employer's month focus.
Among the organisations honoured were Atlas Security, Sunset Jamaica Grande and the Carib Cement Company, who together trained and assessed over 820 of their employees for certification.
Three young entrepreneurs were also specially awarded for embracing the programme: Jason Lovelace, Managing Director of The Mushroom, makers of custom swimwear; Kimani Robinson of Imex Technology Limited, and Craig, Ronald and Colin Young of AROS Entertainment Limited.
The Gleaner Company also copped an award for its excellence in coverage of youth development and industrial-related issues, while industrial relations consultant Novar Mcdonald took home the Presidential Award for excellence. The award is given to people who have made significant contributions to workplace relations.
"This is a humbling experience for me. I would like to thank God first of all for health and my family for giving me the freedom to do what I would like to do," a proud Mr. Mcdonald said.
