420 students sign up for WIA summer program

The Workforce Investment Agency began its weeklong 2008 Summer Youth Employment and Training Program yesterday at the American Memorial Park for 420 CNMI students who have signed up for summer jobs.

A majority of the students who were scheduled to attend their employment and training yesterday showed up to learn more about the jobs they are assigned for the summer.

The students were oriented on the WIA summer youth program, given a presentation on job safety by Richard Hamilton of the U.S. Department of Labor, and received basic training from the International Business and Professional College.

WIA will be farming out the students to various government and private agencies on Saipan. Some of the agencies include divisions of the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, the Public School System, the Department of Public Health, Department of Public Works, Department of Land and Natural Resources, Northern Marianas College, Joeten Enterprise, Duty Free Shoppers, Coral Ocean Point, Aqua Resort and a number of others.

Students referred to DPW will be assigned as office clerks, construction inspectors, computer operators, carpenters, office aides and others.

Students referred to DLNR will take part in projects including reforestation of the Marpi forest, uprooting and clearing the tangle of scarlet gourd vines from trees, planting mango orchards, beautification of parks and scenic locations, and improving trails and camp sites.

Students based at DCCA will complement the Summer Youth Camp headed by the department.

WIA Executive Director Edith E. Deleon Guerrero said this year marks another exciting year for the students in the youth program and hopes that’s this year’s employment and training opportunity will give them the necessary knowledge and skills that will assist the students in becoming a “positive contributing citizen, both socially and economically, within our small island community.”

She further encourages the students to do their best and learn from their trainers the necessary work skills “that will pave the way for your success in your future career and employment plans.”

After a successful completion of the employment and training program, students will finally begin work on June 16 until July 25, 2008.

According to WIA, all summer participants are required to attend their assigned workshop training.