The work based component of the SBO programs entails that students who have been successfully placed will start their on-the-job training in March 2009. Students are required to work two days a week in a job directly related to their program of study.
Approximately 40 students are currently enrolled in SMITH's Skills Training Program. The programs of study in which they are enrolled are the Business Administrative Assistant, Computer (ICT) Service Assistant and Secretariat Assistant Programs.
The purpose of SMITH's Skills Training Program is to prepare students for academic and personal success. The preparatory program strives to inspire students to become productive, self-sufficient members of society. It is based on the assessed needs of members of society. Through SMITH's Skills Training Program the learner should acquire the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes required of a student of Advanced Vocational Education.
"During talks with stakeholders, efforts to place emphasis on the skill areas identified above were applauded. Several professionals in the Commerce and Hospitality Sectors stressed the need for their potential employees to possess and master these skills in order to sufficiently contribute to the growth of their companies," SMITH's Education Coordinator Sidonia Hodge told the Government Information Service (GIS).
The Program focuses on four areas: Academic Skills, Career Skills, Social Skills and Civics. Along side the preparatory program students are also being taught general computer and word processing skills.
After successful completion of the skills program students will display the following skills language and communication skills, basic mathematical skills, employability skills, job acquisition and retention skills, pro-social behaviour and a basic knowledge about St. Maarten and responsible citizenship.
"After one full semester and a half since this program has been introduced it is clear that it enhances the student chances of success in their personal lives and in the world of work in particular," Hodge concluded.
SMITH is currently accepting applications to attend its workforce development programs for Spring 2009. The enrollment process will conclude on December 31, 2008.
SMITH, a post-secondary vocational institution, has been providing educational opportunities for students who had concluded their Preparatory Secondary Vocational Education since 2004. It is currently pursuing SBO accreditation for its programs.
Programs being offered by the Institute for Spring 2009 are Business Administrative Assistant, Secretarial Assistant, Information Technology Service Assistant, Cook, and Security Officer.
Those requiring further information can visit the SMITH office which is located next to the Central Drugstore on the E. Camille Richardson Street #23 in Philipsburg or can call SMITH's administrative offices at 542-1620.
Office hours are from 8.30am to 4.00pm and on December 31 from 8.30am to 12.00pm.
