Under the Technical Assistance Programme of the project, the Department of Infrastructure, Ports and Energy (DIPT) through the RESDP provides educational, training and employment opportunities for women in the energy sector.
The project appraisal stage in 2021 revealed a significant gender gap in in Science, Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) education, and within the workforce, thus contributing to a gender gap in technical education and jobs within the energy sector. This intervention, funded by the Canada Clean Energy and Forests Climate Facility, seeks to narrow gender gaps in St. Lucia, namely educational and employment gaps for technical jobs within the energy sector.
This is facilitated through a scholarship and apprenticeship programme, referred to as the DIPT-RESDP SAP. The latter is being implemented with the assistance of the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC) and will run until 2026. It comprises a two-year academic scholarship to attend the SALCC and a 3-month paid apprenticeship for females.
All females who meet the qualifying requirements to enter SALCC and are accepted to pursue one of these fields of study will be informed of the DIPT-RESDP SAP by the college on entry and invited to apply.
The scholarships provide each awardee with the following:
- Tuition for the two years of study;
- A uniform allowance;
- A laptop;
- Transportation allowance;
- A school supplies allowance
- Tool kit.
- Opportunities for extended paid internships within the energy sector.
The programme also supports the development of its scholarship holders by paying them a stipend during a 3-month internship organized by the college at the end of their studies.
Under the DIPT-RESDP SAP, for the 2022/2023 academic year, 10 scholarships and 3 apprenticeships were awarded and for 2023/2024 academic year, 7 scholarships were awarded to females to pursue programmes of study at Sir Arthur Lewis Community College. For the academic year 2024/2025 there are at least fifteen (15) scholarships available.
Project Implementation Unit
Renewable Energy Sector Development Project
Energy and Public Utilities Division
Sir Stanislaus James Building, Waterfront
Castries
Windia Jaunai
Community Liaison Officer
Project Implementation Unit
Renewable Energy Sector Development Project
Sir Stanislaus James Building, Waterfront
Castries
