Despite a recent robbery, the Bluefields People’s Community Association (BPCA) continues to empower residents in Eastern Westmoreland, under the second phase of a special project entitled, ‘Youth inclusion through information and communication technologies’.

On February 1 this year, a dozen Dell computers and other equipment – valued close to $1 million – were stolen from the BPCA’s resource centre, severely hampering its ability to deliver projects.

Classes for children – ages three to six years – from eight early childhood institutions in the area have been suspended indefinitely as a result. It is the first time in three years that the association is saying no to these children.

The ‘At-risk Youth’ project is sponsored by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Microsoft, to the tune of $1.6 million, and will be managed by Jamaica Sustainable Development Network (JSDN) in collaboration with the BPCA over the next 12 months. A total of 120 youth, ages 17-25 years, will benefit.

Classes began on March 12, with 23 youths from 10 different communities. The six available computers are utilised by an average of more than seven youths per class.

This follows closely on the heels of the first phase, which lasted between June 2005 and August 2006 with similar sponsorship. Two hundred and twenty-five disadvantaged youth from Eastern Westmoreland benefited.

In addition to fundamental classes in computer/Internet, Word Processing, Excel, Web Design, Digital Media and Presentation skills, the youngsters in Phase II will benefit from two extra weeks of classes, career and personal development, (community) leadership and small business development training. This new development is geared to address concerns about “what next” after youngsters graduate.

The BPCA has since formed alliances with private and public sector groups, with the hope of getting the youth prepared for the world of work. Hospitality giant, Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa, National Heart Trust/NTA, and Caribbean Information Technology (CIT) committed their support.

This will include the youth being placed on work experience/jobs over the short, medium or long term. Post offices, libraries, supermarkets and fast food stores will be among the other organisations targeted.

So, you see, despite our latest setback, the BPCA promises a massive comeback.