More than 300 young people seeking careers in Trinidad and Tobago’s growing fisheries and maritime sectors can benefit from a new youth empowerment programme that is already attracting significant demand.
The Blue Economy Youth Empowerment Project, led by the Caribbean Fisheries Training and Development Institute, comes as Trinidad and Tobago looks beyond the traditional uses of its marine resources to create new economic opportunities while protecting the environment.
The project aims to equip young people with technical skills and prepare them for opportunities in fisheries, aquaculture, maritime services, food processing and other areas of the blue economy.
According to the Principal of the Caribbean Fisheries Training and Development Institute, Wesley Pancham, what began with a small group of students is now opening doors for many more young people.
“Yes, we began with 44 participants; 309 more are waiting to enter, 353 young people choosing possibility over limitation. I do not see a waiting list. I see 309 futures waiting for opportunity. Future fishers, technicians, entrepreneurs, maritime professionals and community leaders who will shape Trinidad and Tobago.”
With this investment in young people, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Ravi Ratiram noted that the country’s approach to the ocean must change. He said a focus on sustainable development and greater benefits for coastal communities must be adopted.
“Aquaculture is creating new possibilities for controlled and sustainable aquatic food production. Food processing and value addition are creating opportunities beyond the landing sites. And marine services are generating demand for new technical competencies. Entrepreneurship is creating opportunities for young people to move from being job seekers to becoming job creators. This is why programmes such as this one really matters.”
The Minister also pointed to the growing importance of aquaculture and the potential for T&T to benefit from developments in aquatic food production.
“While Latin America and the Caribbean recorded a significant aquatic animal trade surplus for Trinidad and Tobago, this presents a very important opportunity for all of us. Such young people must bring something that the sector urgently needs: a willingness to innovate, a willingness to create, and a willingness to be the pioneer of your future.”
The project is also receiving support from the marine sector. President of the Marine Services Association of Trinidad and Tobago Jesse James described the initiative as an important investment in workforce renewal.
“This effort aligns directly with our sector’s urgent need for training and workforce renewal. By involving young people in the community level, we are creating lifestyle, lifelong, technical skills for you, young people.”