A key component of the recently-launched comprehensive Crime and Violence Interruption Project (CVIP), being overseen by the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment has concluded.

Last week the curtains came down on the first phase of the Basic Life and Employability Skills (BLES) segment. This aspect of the program sought to equip participants with much needed soft skills in relation to attitudinal adjustments and values needed to find and maintain a job, resume writing, interview, and communications skills, setting goals, emotional intelligence, telephone etiquette, customer service and social media branding.

The Basic Life and Employability Skills component was done over a 12-day period in the communities of Gros Islet, Castries, Anse La Raye, and Vieux Fort and provided skills training to 60 participants.

Head of the Community Development Division, Kendall Elva, said participants will proceed on internship programs based on their professional and academic interests. The Ministry of Equity will provide each participant with a small stipend during the internship period.

The CVIP project's main objective is to reduce violence at the community level by diverting youth from risky behaviors towards opportunities for self-development and growth while building their capacity through training.