Minister Fernandez hails Graduation of 206 Women from Chrysalis Academy

On Saturday, 23 November 2019, 206 young women, who hail from every corner of the province, graduated from Chrysalis Academy,

The majority of youth were unemployed when they joined the Academy in August 2019.  However, through their participation in the programme, they will start one-year internships tomorrow (Monday), through the Department of Community Safety’s Expanded Public Works programme (EPWP).

Minister Fernandez said, “From all the reports received on past placements, the majority of Chrysalis Academy are doing well in their placements, and we have no doubt that the new graduates will do the same. Some students will be placed at Portia Primary school, and as a result of the Academy’s collaboration with the NCC Environmental Services, the first all women firefighting crew, made up of 19 students, will be stationed at the Chrysalis Academy as from Monday.  We wish them every success. “

The course included a very rigorous physical fitness programme, as well as community service in Ocean View and at the Chrysalis Academy. They also participated in a walk against gender-based violence as part of their community phase. This aspect is important, as it instils understanding of the value of community service, and giving back to their communities.

As indicated, despite the majority of students being unemployed when they joined the course, 100% of them have been placed in internships at municipalities, City Improvement Districts, Community Health Centres, Hospitals, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and at the Chrysalis Academy.

“We are pleased that all students will be productively engaged for the next 12 months and we urge families to ensure that they go to work on time.  In the course of their 12 months, should they get full-time employment, they will simply resign from their placements.  We are grateful to all the partners of the Academy for these opportunities and we encourage them to continue to support our graduates,” says Minister Fernandez

The Department of Social Development is committed to the use of a holistic approach to youth development which incorporates a range of support to young people, affected by unemployment, poverty and deep trauma.