As local authorities seek to devise measures to help young people keep on a progressive path officials attached to the international aid donor agency – United States Agency for International Development (USAID), concluded an assessment tour of the Boys Training Centre (BTC).
Hosted towards the end of last month, the USAID representatives met with the Manager and Staff of the BTC for discussions on the ongoing rehabilitation and re-integration processes of BTC wards and the overall needs of the Centre.
The officials received a guided tour of the facility, where they were apprised of the use of USAID donated equipment, and its importance in allowing the BTC to meaningfully engage wards in educational, technical and vocational training.
BTC Manager Wang Sonson welcomed the visitors and embraced the opportunity to discuss the way forward in the context of recent advancements in Saint Lucia’s National Social Protection System, and the recently concluded USAID/OECS Juvenile Justice Reform Project, executed in the countries of the OECS.
“Without that level of assistance, the BTC would have been crippled. Under the OECS Juvenile Justice Reform Project, the provision of equipment and tools to enhance the operations and administrative capacity of the Boys Training Centre was made possible through USAID. Therefore, on behalf of the staff and wards of the BTC, I would like to say thank you,” noted Sonson.
USAID views and describes itself as the world’s premier international development agency and serves as a catalyst toward driving developmental initiatives, while demonstrating American generosity. USAID is an independent agency of the US Federal Government that is focused on international development and humanitarian activities.
The Agency places emphasis on increasing global stability, addressing social issues and creating innovative solutions for tackling development challenges.