MIC-IT launches CSR project for youths

The MIC Institute of Technology (MIC-IT) welcomed 26 young men and women at the launch of the Student Enhancement Empowerment Programme (STEEP) at its head office auditorium on July 10. This latest CSR initiative, devised by MIC-IT’s deputy chairman Keith Toby, and managed by the MIC-IT’s human resources department, is designed to introduce TVET/technical skills, empower youths and enable them to advance in the world of work and the external environment.

A media release said the five-week, full-time programme is designed for secondary school students from selected schools in the East-West Corridor. Thirteen boys and 13 girls were interviewed and selected from the St Joseph, Tunapuna, St Augustin, El Dorado East and St James Secondary School, Hillview College, Holy Cross College and St Augustine Girls' High School.

Speaking at the launch, MIC-IT acting CEO Randy Monilal said the programme will mould the students into educated, mature and skilled young men and women.
“This pilot is also unique in that they will also receive a stipend as well as MIC-IT certificates upon their successful completion.”

Also welcoming the students were MIC-IT’s chairman Prof Clément Imbert, who spoke about the benefits, importance and relevance of the courses to be completed.

Toby, who is also a basic Spanish conversation facilitator in the programme, guaranteed a fun but productive itinerary for the next few weeks.
“Our interns have been carefully screened and chosen, and at the end of the programme we expect that they will not only be well-rounded, but will possess a sense of accomplishment that will be valuable for any future career on which they will embark.”

Encouraging the newly installed trainees was L Anthony Watkins, motivational speaker, who likened MIC-IT to fertile soil, full of nutrients and light to help these young seeds grow. MIC-IT director Wendell Yearwood also roused the crowd and engaged all students with a fun ice-breaker, the release said.

Held at MIC-IT’s head office, the programme will cover 16 modules, including life skills; business etiquette/deportment classes; customer service training; career guidance seminar; resume writing; sports, health and wellness; introduction to music /pan-playing; emotional intelligence; Microsoft office/computer literacy; interviewing skills; introduction to TVET/technical skills; basic Spanish conversation; introduction to entrepreneurship; conversations with professionals; self-care grooming; and girl talk/boy talk conversations.