Government Launches Registration Drive for Employment and Training Opportunities

The Government of the Virgin Islands has initiated a Registration Drive aimed at expanding employment, training, and education prospects for unemployed individuals in the region. This drive is facilitated through the Registration Apprenticeship Training Employment and Development (RATED) Programme, offering temporary employment opportunities within various ministries and departments in the Public Service.

Named “Coming to a District Near You,” the initiative is scheduled to take place from January 22 to January 31 in each electoral district. Its objective is to provide employment, training, and educational avenues for Virgin Islanders and Belongers aged 18 to 70 who are either unemployed or working part-time.

Expressing enthusiasm about the new drive under the RATED programme, Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley stated, “I am pleased to see this new initiative, ‘Coming to a District Near You.’ This is yet further proof that we are on our way to achieving our goals through the RATED programme, which is to change lives, enhance skills, and develop future entrepreneurs, one person at a time.”

Premier Wheatley also discussed the future of the RATED programme, outlining plans to enhance its offerings and extend more benefits to the people of the Virgin Islands.

Encouraging participation, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, Mr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley, invited interested individuals to make a special effort to attend and register during the drive. He highlighted the positive impact the RATED programme has had on the lives of many Virgin Islanders and Belongers, with some securing permanent employment as a result.

“We have taken notice of the positive impact, and that is why we have launched ‘Coming to a District Near You,’ to ensure that everyone hears about RATED, and those interested and eligible can sign up to be a part of this Programme,” added Mr. Smith-Berkeley.

Interested individuals are requested to present documents, including a BVI Passport or Belonger Card, National Health Insurance (NHI) Card, Social Security Card, and a CV for those interested in office employment.

The RATED Programme encompasses various areas of interest, including Landscaping/Bush Cutting, Painting, Construction, Carpentry, Marine, Administration, Data Entry, Communications/Public Relations, Agriculture/Fisheries, Janitorial Services, Legal/Professional Services, Real Estate, and Hospitality.