-Cosmetologist says of Single Parent Training
Government has turned the dreams of many single parents into reality with the initiation of the Single Parent Training Programme and the economic assistance grant now available to all graduates. Over 250 parents congregated at the Umana Yana, Kingston yesterday  where they were presented with their economic assistance grants to start their businesses.
The graduates who were trained through the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) are entitled to the $60,000 worth of equipment in their respective areas of training.
During brief remarks, Kamlawattie Rampersaud, who received training in cosmetology, expressed profound appreciation to the Ministry of Human Services for such a thoughtful programme which she said fulfilled a life-long dream.
She said,“I became a cosmetologist because of the Ministry of Human Services’ single parent programme. It was always my dream but it could not have come true because of circumstances.”
Proprietor of the Nayelli’s Cosmetology School, Bibi Rahim, who facilitated the training of some of the women, said she was quite pleased to be given the opportunity to be part of the programme.
She mentioned her delight at the fact that not only were the women trained, but they are also being assisted with the capital for a small enterprise.
Rahim noted that when such businesses were starting up years ago, proprietors were forced to use bottom houses since there was no government assistance.
She advised the women to read a lot, stay in fashion, and keep abreast of current trends in order to make their businesses profitable.
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Priya Manickchand, stated that the ministry is tasked with looking after persons from vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, children and single parents who are weakened due to various circumstances.
Manickchand said government has recognised that single parents are persons who can make meaningful contributions to the country.
“We give day-care assistance to working mothers and we have trained those who need work…Now this grant will allow you to utilise your training meaningfully.”
She added that government’s dream is to empower women to lead lives that are significantly enhanced for them and their children.
Minister Manickchand took time out to recognise the lone male, Rudra Chinapen, trained under the single parent programme. She said he should be celebrated as the perfect example of a good, responsible father.
The Ministry of Human Services will soon launch its micro-credit programme which will offer loans at low interest rates to single parents who desire to start a small business. (GINA)