The Cayman Brac District Administration internship programme is helping 24 college-bound students to gain firsthand experience in the tough job market in Cayman Brac. These days, finding work can be a real challenge, especially without experience. Yet, to get experience job seekers must first find a job. An internship is a good first step into the job market.

In order to accommodate the 24 interns, District Administration District Commissioner Ernie Scott reduced the five-day work week to three and half days. This also allowed those students attending UCCI to stay on top of their studies, while gaining the necessary work experience. In addition, the internship programmes provides participants with a competitive edge in the job market, allows them to transition into a job and decide on the right career and enables them to network and gain confidence by being in a work environment.

The current group of interns started working in September and will finish in May.  The interns work at government departments such as Customs, Immigration, PWD, Postal Service, Sports, Treasury and the MRCU. The programme was started in 1995 by Acting District Commissioner Joel Walton to give short term relief coverage in various government departments and provide workplace exposure and on-the-job maturing for graduates.

“For many years, high school graduates on Cayman Brac had no option other than to leave the island to find employment, as they sought some source of income,” District Commissioner Ernie Scott explained.

“We want to offer some degree of hope and relief to students and this programme provides the opportunity to the interns before they continue with tertiary education or embark on a permanent career,” he added.

The interns are grateful for the opportunity and Jovonnie Anglin and Rachel Dilbert explained that they have learnt many valuable life lessons.

Mr. Anglin, who interns with Customs, said: “It is teaching me what is expected in the workplace, and is making me more responsible. I know how to budget better and understand the importance of staying within a fixed income.”

Ms. Dilbert, who interns at the Immigration Department, commented: “It has been a good experience and I am enjoying meeting different people each day as I go through my work day. It has also sharpened my skills.”

Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for District Administration Hon. Juliana O’Connor-Connolly, who met with the group, encouraged them to continue their education.

“Don’t stop here. Make this a starting point. Continue with tertiary education, because education opens doors. There are many more doors for you all to open with God’s help,” she stated.

The benefits to these interns go far beyond a pay cheque and their assignment helps the departments as well.