KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — The Universal Service Fund (USF) will be engaging approximately 1,000 youngsters in information communication technology (ICT) training and employment over a 12-month period commencing January 2018.

Participants are now being recruited for the Technology Advancement Programme (TAP), which involves partnership with the Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology and the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU).

Portfolio Minister, Dr Andrew Wheatley, in his address at the launch at the Knutsford Court Hotel in New Kingston on Friday said the programme will provide a golden opportunity for unattached youth, high school, college and university graduates and others ages 18 to 35 years.

“We need to ensure that as part of the Government’s general thrust to build-out a knowledge-based digital society, that we develop the level of competence in our young people to embrace and capitalise on opportunities,” he said.

Wheatley said he is confident that the initiative will not only empower young people, but will revolutionise the use of ICT in Jamaica.

He said the Government recognises the value of the sector as a critical pillar for economic growth and development.

TAP will utilise community access points (CAP) set up by the USF across the island.

Participants will receive training and employment in digitisation, data collection and proofreading, among others.

Chairman of the USF, Robert Lawrence, said TAP is yet another step in USF’s journey towards helping Jamaica to bridge the digital gap.

“It is so important for us to bridge this great information divide as doing so will unlock a world of possibilities for Jamaicans from all walks of life and can help boost and foster economic growth and development at the micro and macro levels,” he added.