KINGSTON, Jamaica — The pilot for a cultural apprenticeship programme is to be undertaken during the upcoming fiscal year, targeting 200 young people.

They will be paid $69,000 per month during training.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness made the announcement during his contribution to the 2025/26 Budget Debate on Thursday.

He said he had listened to the voices of young people he has met during his travels across the country who, when asked, have indicated that they want to be an entertainer, a DJ, producer or another profession in the entertainment industry.

“Young people, I hear you loud and clear. I am pleased to announce Jamaica’s first-ever cultural apprenticeship programme,” Holness said.

He disclosed that 200 young people will receive preliminary creative and business training by the HEART Trust-NSTA.

“But more importantly, we will connect participants with local and international creatives (event planners, promoters, entertainers, artisans, sculptors, filmmakers, and context creators) for the completion of their training.”

He said while apprentices are being trained on the job they will be provided with a stipend of $69,000 per month by the HEART Trust.

He said that to ensure broad representation, each Member of Parliament will be asked to nominate two young people for the programme.