OTTAWA, Canada (CMC) — Canada announces it will contribute C$3 million to create a Caribbean Future Skills Fund to help build a workforce capable of capitalizing on technological innovation and contribute to inclusive and sustainable economies in the Caribbean.

Ottawa said the move is a continuation of strengthening its partnership with Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries by focusing on solving the region’s key development challenges through education, technical training and professional.

“Canada stands with our Caribbean partners to build a resilient and sustainable future for all. The Caribbean Future Skills Fund will contribute to economic development while enabling communities to thrive. Together, we are investing in a better future for generations to come,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Canada said it supports the vision of Caricom leaders, including President Mohamed Irfaan Ali of Guyana, President and Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell of Grenada and Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados, to create a fund regional that would equip young people in the Caribbean region with valuable and viable skills. job opportunities.

In the initial stages, Canada said it would work with Caribbean government leaders, Caricom institutions, Canadian and Caribbean technical and professional institutions and private sector partners to examine feasible options for the creation and the implementation of the fund.

He said activities would include support for labor market assessments and the establishment of pilot programs.

Canadian International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen said developing technical and professional skills is essential for young people to actively participate in the job market.

“Through this investment, we are helping to create sustainable employment opportunities for them, thereby contributing to the economic growth, resilience and prosperity of the Caribbean region,” Hussen added.

Prime Minister Mitchell said Canada’s leadership in creating a Caribbean Future Skills Fund is an important step towards creating a more resilient youth workforce.

“Together we will give the people of Grenada and young people across the Caribbean the skills needed for present and future employment while combating the brain drain and providing better opportunities for women, marginalized and at-risk groups, especially to young men,” he said.

President Irfaan Ali said Guyana welcomes Canada’s commitment to establish a fund that will unlock new opportunities for Caribbean youth and promote high-quality, inclusive education and training.

“This partnership reflects our shared vision of reliable economic growth and long-term success,” he added.

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley said this partnership with Canada helps unlock the full potential of Barbados’ youth.

“By supporting skills development and employment opportunities, this initiative will build a stronger and more inclusive economy in the Caribbean region,” she said.