Dozens of young men in the Tunapuna area are being given the chance to learn the art of barbering.
Member of Parliament for Tunapuna and Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander is providing the opportunity for dozens of young men to learn the new skill.
The Minister indicated that the idea originated from Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.
“My Prime Minister mandated me to find ways how we can reintroduce discipline, tolerance, production, respect for human life, respect for themselves, respect for elders, respect for authority, yeah? Obey the law, no other, all these things. So what I decided, you know what? Let’s get persons in the area and out of the area involved in something they would love.”
The Homeland Security Minister said the idea of providing these young men with this new skill was about equipping them to improve their economic standing.
“It’s about teaching people to fish and not giving them fish, right? I told them before I have fish in the back there, but I am not giving out fish. I give them the rod, I give them the bait, teach them to fish, and then they could start filling their own basket. And from there they can start sharing with other persons.”
The programme provides for 60 young men to learn the art of barbering.
“I didn’t ask for a certificate of character. You know why? Because I want them to understand that there are persons who’s willing to give them a second chance. For their second chance to make a first impression. So even if that’s the case, this is your second chance to make a first impression.”
The programme was oversubscribed. However, Minister Alexander promised those who were unsuccessful this time that there will be other opportunities.
“Hold for six weeks and if I have to do it again, I will do it again and again and again and again if it means that it has this type of impact in persons’ lives.”
The young participants will be engaged over a six-week period.