By Sharon Austin BGIS

(Barbados, Eastern Caribbean) – Prime Minister Freundel Stuart has described the Caribbean Leadership Project’s Leadership Development Programme for senior civil servants as being critical to the region’s development.

He made the comments recently while hosting an Evening of Culinary and Musical Delights at the Barbados Defence Force for participants of the third module for Cohort Three of the Programme, which had as its theme: Serving Our People, Country and Region.

Mr. Stuart pointed out that two countries in the Caribbean had already celebrated 50 years of Independence, two others would join them soon and a few others would follow not long after. He said the golden anniversary would be realised as a result of strong public services across this region.

“We will only make another 50 years if we have strong public services across this region and we are only going to have strong public services if we have strong and effective leadership at critical levels,” he stated.

The Prime Minister said he had interacted closely with many of the senior civil servants in Barbados who graduated from the programme and was impressed with their outlook and attitude.

Canada’s High Commissioner to Barbados, Richard Hanley, said significant achievements had been made so far in the programme, which would transform the Caribbean.

He disclosed that 48 persons had already graduated from the programme and that the number would increase to 72 very shortly. He congratulated the participants for committing to become a part of a new generation of Caribbean leaders, saying a better region would be created, which would improve the lives of citizens.

Mr. Hanley added that Canada looked forward to working with Barbados and other Caribbean countries to build on their past successes and to work towards an even better future.

During the event, Mr. Stuart presented High Commissioner Hanley with books on the Military History of Barbados and the Barbados National Trust – Guardians of Our Heritage – 50 Years. In addition, the Prime Minister handed over commemorative trophies to the Barbados Culinary Team, the Barbados Defence Force Culinary Team and the Band of the Barbados Defence Force.

The Caribbean Leadership Project is funded by the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development, and executed by the Canada School of Public Service. It is expected to help the region develop a new generation of leaders, providing them with skills to resolve complex governance, economic and social issues, and advance the values of gender equality, human rights, equity and democracy.

The programme will also help to create more transparent, accountable and effective public sector management and contribute more effectively to regional integration.

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