As Saint Lucia prepares to celebrate her 38th Independence Anniversary under the theme “I am Saint Lucia”, the Secretariat of the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council extends warm patriotic wishes to the Government and people of Saint Lucia.
Wishing you a Happy Independence Day!
#iamsaintlucia #38yearsandcounting #independenceday #ilovesaintlucia #lucianpride #758 #thelandthepeoplethelight
If you were to ask the average Saint Lucian, “What does patriotism mean to you?” very few would be able limit their response to just one answer.
Patriotism, is a word which evokes so many thoughts and feelings. For a small island nation like Saint Lucia, coloured by a rich history of trials, triumphs and resilience, patriotism has evolved to mean so much more than pure love, loyalty and devotion to the ‘land that gave us birth.’
Today, when we speak of patriotism, the following questions come to mind; “How can we can help our country to grow and develop? What value can we add to our country? How can we improve/enhance the way things are done? How can we ensure that the generations that follow will be able to enjoy the same (if not better) quality of living than what we currently enjoy today?”
In the National Competitiveness & Productivity Council’s (NCPC’s) quest to fulfil its mandate of promoting greater awareness of productivity and competitiveness in St. Lucia, significant emphasis is being placed on cultivating an environment which fosters/encourages the necessary mindset change required for an improvement in productivity.
Consequently, on the eve of Saint Lucia’s 38th Independence Anniversary celebrations, the Council relaunched its “Empowerment Series.” The series which was officially launched last year, targets youth island-wide and seeks to encourage them to embrace the attitudes and values which will lead Saint Lucia into a more productive future.
The boys of the St. Aloysius R.C. Boys Primary School were the eager audience to the NCPCs first Empowerment presentation for 2017. Anybody passing by the school on Monday, February 20th, would have been treated to a chorus of over 400 boys, clad in their black and blue school uniforms, proudly belting out the verses of the Saint Lucian National Anthem.
Scores of R.C. Boys look on in interest
Like many other schools on island, the activities at the all-boys primary school earmarked for this week centred on the island’s observance of its 38th Independence Anniversary.
The week was ushered in with a school assembly, which sought to highlight the country’s journey towards independence. Co-ordinator of the assembly and Teacher Ms. Wheatney Francis, animatedly narrated the history of Saint Lucia; from being inhabited by the Amerindians, to colonialism and the Anglo-French wars to gaining Associate Statehood and eventually independence from the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in 1979.
Ms. Francis’ narration set the perfect tone for the lively presentation on ‘Productivity and patriotism’, by Ms. Renita Shivnauth, which ensued. Ms. Shivnauth, 2013 Junior Tourism Minister, a public speaker and NCPC Productivity Ambassador, warmly greeted the “Sons [] of Saint Lucia” and immediately caught their attention.
Productivity Ambassador, Ms. Renita Shivnauth addresses R.C. boys
In addressing the young boys, Shivnauth explained how words of the national anthem, a symbol of national pride, which they were all quite familiar with, was also a blueprint for living a productive life. The boys looked on with interest, excited to hear more.
Renita emphasized that by the very act of going to school and acquiring knowledge and skills, these young men were preparing to make a contribution to
the country. She said, “Boys, you each have an important role to play in our country’s growth. For our country to thrive you must continue to work hard and understand that each of your actions, no matter how small has an impact on not just your future but that of your country. You do not have to wait to be older to be productive. I want to encourage you to dream now. Set goals and continue to pursue these goals until you have achieved them. You are the future of Saint Lucia.”
The presentation by Ms. Shivnauth was very appropriate particularly in light of the theme for Saint Lucia’s 38th Independence Anniversary; “I Am Saint Lucia”. The theme encourages deep reflection on not just what patriotism means but what is required of us as patriots and citizens of Saint Lucia. As we reflect on our roles, the link between productivity and patriotism is further brought to light.
“Your pride for your country should not come after your country becomes great; your country becomes great because of your pride in it” Idowu Koyenikan. The end result of increases in productivity and enhanced competitiveness is a better standard of living for the average citizen. Put simply, productivity means making the best use of the available resources to achieve a better outcome. Competitiveness on the other hand, focuses on developing optimal conditions in the country that promote economic well being. These two concepts are closely linked as increases in productivity in a country will lead to a competitive economy.
To the average businessman, vendor, farmer or civil servant these terms may seem very abstract and may not be relatable to them. However, it is important that our citizens collectively understand productivity and competitiveness and their importance in ensuring that we build a stronger economy. That is, we must be cognizant of the fact that- productivity and competitiveness helps ensure that there are better social amenities, better roads, jobs, a better health care system and opportunities for our children to become skilled, trained and educated.
As such, it is vital that all walks of life unite and join in the quest of advancing Saint Lucia economically. This therefore calls for all segments of the population to get involved as everyone has an important role in creating a more competitive country. That is, it is the responsibility of our leaders to cause changes while the workers are the ones actively implementing these changes. The electorate is responsible for demanding accountability and change. Our youth is also responsible for embracing the importance of skills, training and education as they will be the future engineers of a competitive Saint Lucia. As such, we see this concept as being applicable to the entire citizenry.
In order to build a more competitive Saint Lucia, there must be a shift in mindset and culture to one of uniting to build a better Saint Lucia. Citizens must understand that they are not just employed to receive a salary but rather for the advancement of their country. Our actions therefore have a greater societal impact which will determine and affect the way we live, the opportunities available to us and more importantly the amount of money we have in our pockets. And so, a labourer who is constructing a school building should not see it as just carrying blocks to get paid on Friday. A conscious productive citizen will see this as constructing the right environment for his children and grandchildren to be comfortable when learning so that they can thrive and be champions of their own success.
Patriotism involves a desire to see one’s country thrive. Efforts to enhance Saint Lucia
holistically must encompass citizens actively and collectively working and acting in our country’s best interest. This involves being a productive worker, keeping our surroundings clean, getting involved in community work etc. Patriotism promotes unity which is the key to success. It therefore encourages citizens to work diligently for the betterment of their homeland. Patriotism serves as a motivator as it drives people to work hard which leads to a successful nation. Apart from hard work, patriotism pulls people together when their country is faced with external threats such as natural disasters or other global crises.
There should be a continuous and concerted effort to awaken a patriotic conscience among Saint Lucians. This should be done through continuous reminders on social media, through television and radio programs, students should be taught thoroughly about the value of patriotism, also our people can be informed about their social duties through newspapers, billboards, advertisements etc.
In conclusion, patriotism promotes a powerful, productive and competitive nation, as it continuously motivates us to work for the betterment of the country. This betterment can advance Saint Lucia to a more productive and competitive country. It is a positive step in making Saint Lucia more united, strong and a more unbeatable nation within the region. Therefore, to promote a more developed, united and competitive country, it should start with awakening a patriotic principle of our people. Happy Independence Saint Lucia!
About the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC)
Established in October 2013, The National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) is responsible for the identification of key issues related to competitiveness and productivity in Saint Lucia.
The NCPC and its Technical Secretariat is committed to providing the necessary advocacy and research to produce timely and effective recommendations to policymakers on issues that affect both competitiveness and productivity on island. For more information about productivity or on the NCPC, visit www.stluciancpc.org; www.facebook.com/stluciancpc, call 468-5571/5576 or send an e-mail to stluciancpc@gmail.com
All managers want their employees to be as productive as possible, a goal that – given the chronically high levels of employee disengagement across the workforce – would seem none too easy to attain. Yet despite certain challenges, there are some simple managerial steps that can position those in charge for productive success. Here are five no-cost methods that managers can use to boost their productivity.
Set carefully chosen employee job objectives that are ambitious but attainable –
Most managers spend a fraction of the time they should developing clear measurable employee objectives. They also do not spend enough time involving employees in the process. Well-conceived goals are crucial. Without goals it is impossible for employees to arrive at the right place, as they will be unclear as to where they should be heading.
Manage objectives –
Just because solid objectives are in place, there is no guarantee that they will be attained. Studies show that accountability, (holding employees to results that have earlier been agreed to) is not a common management strength. Establishing meaningful objectives is a sound first step, but it means little if these targets aren’t firmly managed too.
Keep employees in a productive frame of mind –
Expect excellence and diligence, but treat people decently and respectfully along the way. It’s amazing how a respectful attitude toward employees fosters energy and productivity, while disrespect breeds discontent and disengagement. Mind-set matters! Employees need to be in a positive mind-set to do their best. People need to be positively energized if they are expected to go above and beyond.
Provide Ample Recognition –
Whilst the desire for recognition is a critical issue within any establishment, it must be understood that recognition does not have to have a monetary value. What employees often want the most is meaningful personal recognition from their direct manager. Acknowledgement does not have to be fancy. It simply needs to be honest appreciation for a job well done. Recognition aids in keeping employees in the desired productive mind-set.
Listen and innovate –
One of the most productive things a manager can do with his or her employees is simply to listen. Ask employees for input. Employees are usually the individuals closest to the actual work, which means that they often have the best grassroots ideas on how to innovate and improve daily operations. The very act of being taken seriously and listened to by management has value. It helps employees feel engaged and a part of the team.
All of these approaches will aid in raising the levels of productivity within an organisation without costing a penny. Now isn’t that productive!
About the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC)
Established in October 2013, The National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) is responsible for the identification of key issues related to competitiveness and productivity in Saint Lucia.
The NCPC and its Technical Secretariat is committed to providing the necessary advocacy and research to produce timely and effective recommendations to policymakers on issues that affect both competitiveness and productivity on island. For more information about productivity or on the NCPC, visit www.stluciancpc.org; www.facebook.com/stluciancpc, call 468-5571/5576 or send an e-mail to stluciancpc@gmail.com
Union Orchid Gardens came alive on Tuesday, February 7, 2017, when students from seven local secondary schools gathered for Junior Achievement St. Lucia’s annual “Start-Up Fete.”
The event, which has been held in Saint Lucia since 2013, seeks to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship by encouraging students to develop out-of-the-box business ideas, all while providing support and sharing techniques which will help these students to grow their businesses.
This year’s cohort had the opportunity to pitch their business ideas and get coaching from a team of mentors and judges that included business, marketing and sales experts, entrepreneurs and government officials. The mentoring team also presented on some important topics ranging from ideation and marketing to leadership and corporate social responsibility.
Managing Director of Algas Organics and 2016 Young Entrepreneur of the Year Johanan Dujon, one of the JA mentors, delivered a very rousing speech to the Junior Achievement students. He chronicled his journey as an entrepreneur and emphasised the reality of being a 21st entrepreneur. He said, “Entrepreneurship is not a house on a hill with five (5) Audis parked in front of it. It is the result of hard work and dedication.”
Communications Specialist at the NCPC, Ms. Taluah Girard who served as JA mentor, lauded JA SLU for this initiative. “The role of entrepreneurship in job creation and the reduction of unemployment, particularly among the youth, is undeniable. Junior Achievement St. Lucia provides the perfect platform for youth to network with not only their peers but established entrepreneurs. With youth unemployment on the rise, we should definitely be looking to entrepreneurship as a long-term solution. The NCPC remains committed to promoting awareness of competitiveness and encouraging activities which will help to achieve sustained growth and development. The ideas presented here today are very promising.”
The students of Beanfield Comprehensive emerged overall winners of the Start Up Fete with their product idea, Ban-Chow; a delectable and nutritious chow-mein made from local green bananas. Entrepot Secondary School came in second place with their business idea; Kup Kreationz while Vieux Fort Comprehensive captured third place with Doc & Print Express.
In February 2017, Compete Caribbean will launch Phase Two of its program in direct response to the region’s inability to harness private sector as an engine of growth, as it is facing declining productivity and limits to growth of firms.
The first phase of Compete Caribbean addressed the objective of fostering private sector development and increasing competitiveness through different activities, which included institutional strengthening, legal and regulatory reform, technical assistance to innovative firms and groups of firms, and knowledge production and dissemination.
Phase One also produced previously unavailable data about the private sector. The rationale for a second phase comes from the opportunity to build on the results and lessons learned from the first phase by: (i) focusing on specific issues that affect firm’s productivity, growth and employment diagnosed under the first phase; and (ii) building the capacity of indigenous institutions to replicate in a sustainable manner the methodologies developed under the first phase.
Private sector development still represents a major developmental challenge for the region and it is against this background that Compete Caribbean will embark on a follow up program which will focus on closing the gender gap among other fundamental solutions to the region’s challenges.
Click the below links to find out more:
gender-innovation-and-productivity-in-the-caribbean
nascent-entrepreneurs-in-caribbean-small-island-developing-states-opportunity-versus-necessity
Competition is vital to development. In Latin American and Caribbean, RIAC (Inter–American Competitiveness Network) aims to make the region more competitive in effort to secure a more competitive and prosperous future for the region.
In October, 2011, during a meeting of the Competitiveness and Innovation Authorities and Councils of the Americas, the 10 General Competitiveness Principles were established. Since then, countries within the RIAC network use this document as a guideline for work related to competitiveness at the national level in their respective countries.
Click here to download the 10 General Principles of Competitiveness.
We all know that the right mind-set can improve productivity. What if that mind-set was nothing more than the feeling of happiness? According to research from the University of Warwick, happiness makes people more productive at work. In conducting this research, economists carried out a number of experiments to test the idea that happy employees work harder. Under laboratory conditions, they found that happiness made people approximately 12% more productive.
Professor Andrew Oswald, Dr. Eugenio Proto and Dr. Daniel Sgroi from the Department of Economics at the University of Warwick led the research. The study, which was published in the Journal of Labour Economics, included four different experiments with more than 700 participants. During the experiments a number of the participants were either shown a comedy movie clip or treated to free chocolate, drinks and fruit. Others were questioned about recent family tragedies, such as bereavements. All these experiments were done to assess whether lower levels of happiness were later associated with lower levels of productivity.
After compiling the results, it was noted that happier workers use the time they have more effectively, whereby increasing the pace at which they can work without sacrificing quality.
Professor Oswald commented companies like Google that have invested in employee emotional support saw an increase in employee productivity. In the case of Google, productivity rose by 37%. Therefore, making workers happier can really pay off.
Dr. Proto noted that the research had implications for employers and promotion policies. He stated, ‘We have shown that happier subjects are more productive, the same pattern appears in four different experiments. This research will provide some guidance for management in all kinds of organizations; they should strive to make their workplaces emotionally healthy for their workforce.’
In addition, employees have the ability to make themselves happy at work by choosing a vocation that makes them happy. People who enjoy what they do are far more productive than those who do not have passion for their work. Motivational speaker Denis Waitley once said, ‘Happy people plan actions, they don’t plan results.’ Relate this to the many times that workers get so wrapped up in their work that they do not recognise the passing of time. In much respect, this is an example of those productively planning and forging ahead with plans and actions.
Research over the past decade focuses on creativity, productivity, and the psychology of everyday work life. From small entrepreneurial start-ups to large established enterprises, the same holds true: People are more productive and creative when they encompass a larger percentage of positive emotions. In fact, it can be said that, if happier on a given day, people were not only more likely to come up with a new idea or solve a complex problem on that particular day but also to repeat the feat on the following day.
In light of today’s economic landscape, it’s more important than ever for companies to have happy and productive employees. When employees are loyal and engaged in the company, profits are higher. Conversely, when people feel unmotivated or undervalued, the company suffers. Additionally, studies show that engaged employees are seldom absent from work, perform better, and are more supportive of changes and willing to make them happen.
However, keeping employees happy is hard work as happiness comes from within a person. Friends, family and an individual’s job can add to or detract from someone’s happiness level. So if the workplace has a stressful work environment or painful things are happening, such as gossiping, employees’ productivity levels will decline.
Happy employees are also satisfied and feel a sense of accomplishment in their work. They like what they do, and they find satisfaction from their work. When workers feel that they are a dynamic and essential part of the team, they are more productive and willing to go the extra mile for their customers and co-workers. Therefore, employers need to give praise openly, set goals appropriate to the work and always take their employees’ needs seriously. By respecting and listening to their staff, employers give their workers the motivational push they need to stay loyal and committed to the company’s goals. Therefore, when there is a happy and productive workforce that is eager to contribute, their company can weather any economic storm.
About the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC)
Established in October 2013, The National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) is responsible for the identification of key issues related to competitiveness and productivity in Saint Lucia.
The NCPC and its Technical Secretariat is committed to providing the necessary advocacy and research to produce timely and effective recommendations to policymakers on issues that affect both competitiveness and productivity on island. For more information about productivity or on the NCPC, visit www.stluciancpc.org; www.facebook.com/stluciancpc, call 468-5571/5576 or send an e-mail to stluciancpc@gmail.com
NCPC Executive Director , Mrs. Fiona Hinkson presents on Productivity Measurement [Photo by Gabrielle Johnson, National Project Officer, CEF]
On Wednesday, January 18, 2017 The St. Lucia Employers Federation (SLEF) hosted a one-day Membership Workshop entitled “Productivity Improvements for Small and Micro Enterprises” at the Bay Gardens Inn. The workshop was a follow-up to one held in Grenada in 2015, for members of the Caribbean Employer’s Confederation (CEC), which identified productivity training as one of the critical needs of members.
This year’s workshop, which was a collaboration with the Caribbean Employers’ Confederation (CEC), the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC), sought to equip SMEs with an understanding of the concept of productivity and strategies for improving at an organizational level.
Amongst the facilitators at the activity were Ms. Vanessa Phala, Senior Specialist on Employers’ Activities attached to the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean, who provided participants with an Overview to some ILO Productivity Tools; Ms. Fiona Hinkson, Executive Director of the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) , who presented on on “Productivity & Competitiveness Indicators, Measurement, Data Requirements & Data availability in St. Lucia” and “Measures to Improve Productivity at various Organizational Levels” and Mr. Joseph Alexander, Executive Director of the St. Lucia Employers’ Federation who addressed“Improving Productivity/Controlling absenteeism”. The workshop concluded with discussion on policies and strategies to address productivity.
Mrs. Fiona Hinkson, National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) [Photo by Gabrielle Johnson, National Project Officer, Caribbean Employer’s Federation]
