The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) and the National Youth Service (NYS) today (April 8) signed a Memorandum of Understanding signaling their commitment to the implementing and development of the recently concluded Events Management Programme which trained 50 young people between the ages of 17 to 24 years old as Events Production Assistants.

The signing by the Board Chair of both agencies, Aston Cooke (JCDC) and Maureen Webber (NYS) took place at the NYS Head Office on Collins Green Avenue in Kingston. Mr. Cooke and Ms Webber noted that the training and placement of the participants comes at an opportune time as the Production Assistants will be placed at the JCDC head and parish offices to utilize their knowledge and skills in the execution of the JCDC’s programmes and national, celebratory and commemorative events across the island.

JCDC’s Executive Director, Mr. Delroy Gordon said both agencies are committed to enhancing such an important initiative adding that the JCDC will track the progress of the participants after their six month employment at the Commission’s offices. Participating in the signing ceremony also was NYS Executive Director, Mr. Melvin Smith who said his agency is excited at the prospects of this programme which will provide meaningful opportunities for the youngsters in the creative and cultural industry.

The JCDC and NYS hosted the week-long residential Events Management training programme recently where the participants benefited from training in Events Planning, Events Budget Preparation and Monitoring, Customer Relations, Elements of Production, Basic Décor, Set Design & Construction, First Aid and Fire Safety and Basic Protocol.

The Events Production Assistants will commence employment at the JCDC on Tuesday, April 22.