Six recent graduates of the Tourism Cadet Corps programme [view photo]

Eleven Tourism Cadets are spending their summer internships at various establishments within the island's hospitality and service sector. This is an integral part of The Antigua Barbuda Tourism Cadets Programme.

Carlisle Bay Resort, Curtain Bluff Resort, Coconut Beach Club, HBK Villa Rentals, Rex Resort Properties - Hawksbill and Halcyon, as well as the Caribbean Union Bank, corporate sponsor of the Tourism Cadet Corps Programme (2007/2008) have provided the placements.

"The participating Tourism Cadets are presented with the opportunity to learn more about the sector, gain first-hand knowledge and experience by working alongside professionals in the field, and be better positioned to make informed decision about pursuing a career in the hospitality and service sector," said Cynthia Simon, Manager for Tourism Education, Training and Awareness in the Ministry of Tourism.

"During their internships, the Tourism Cadets are scheduled as regular workers and assigned to jobs in various departments. It is anticipated that they will learn the requirements for specific job functions while getting a feel of what it is like to work.

Tourism Cadets who recently graduated from their secondary schools will spend four weeks going through various departments on their internship, while the fourth formers will spend two weeks.

This is the third year that the Ministry of Tourism has embarked on a summer internship work experience programme for its Tourism Cadets.

The Ministry of Tourism is currently inviting secondary school students between the ages of 15 and 18 to apply for membership in the Antigua Barbuda Tourism Cadet Corps (2008/2009 Programme). Application Forms are available at the Reception Desk, Ministry of Tourism, Queen Elizabeth Highway, St. John's, Antigua. Registration is open until August 15, 2008. For further information contact Cynthia Simon, Manager, Tourism Education, Training and Awareness Unit in the Ministry of Tourism.