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How to be a Productive Intern this Summer…

By Competitiveness, Productivity, Self Improvement, Tips, Youth
St. Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association Apprenticeship Scheme Intern Melissa Mondesir

St. Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association Apprenticeship Scheme Intern Melissa Mondesir

Internships provide real world experience to those looking to explore or gain the relevant knowledge and skills required to enter into a particular career field. Internships are relatively short term in nature with the primary focus on getting some on the job training and taking what’s learned in the classroom and applying it to the real world.
Internships are an excellent way to begin building those all-important connections that are invaluable in developing and maintaining a strong professional network for the future.
Each year, thousands of students gain experience by doing summer internships. In order to be successful at your internship this summer here are seven tips that could help you make your stint productive.
Start your day early
Set your morning alarm earlier than usual and swing by the office ahead of time. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, this extra time in the morning can be very useful. This allows you the chance to complete a few tasks, check your inbox, and feel less rushed throughout the day.
Write  down  everything
Whether you consider yourself to be an absorbent sponge it never hurts to carry a notebook. When you have to remember important information, you won’t need to waste time racking your brain, but can open up your handy notes instead. Invest in a quality notebook or two and always keep them handy throughout the day for easy access.
Utilize to-do lists     
Keeping a planner or to-do list can be help you keep track of your daily and weekly assignments as an intern. Remember, time management is crucial to becoming more productive. You will be thankful that you have everything scheduled neatly once your tasks and weekly meetings start to pile up.
 Take regular breaks
Taking regular breaks may sound counterproductive however this will increase your performance at work. Studies have shown that breaks can help increase attention span as well as prevent fatigue and eyestrain from sitting at your desk all day. Everyone needs time to unwind and stretch- take a water break, make small talk with staff or take a few minutes to meditate.
Eat snacks
Don’t go hungry during your internship; snack on some healthy treats for extra energy and brain power. Skip the  sugary sweets that can make you feel sluggish and grab something quick for the office for example almonds (a handful is rich in vitamin E, calcium, and potassium), fresh or dried fruits (naturally sweet and also strengthen your immune system), or carrots with hummus (which has protein, calcium, iron, and can improve your eyesight).
Ask for help
Try to avoid being the intern who refreshes their outlook inbox every five seconds waiting for something to do. Ask your supervisor or any other colleague in your department if there are additional tasks that needs to be done. Always ask for guidance if you are unsure of how to complete tasks and bear in mind that you are there to learn and grow. Showing initiative and interest will definitely increase opportunities for growth.
 Meet everyone you can 
You’re an intern in an office filled with industry professionals make use of this opportunity to network. Start by saying “hello” to people in the hallways, and always make sure to introduce yourself. The connections you make at your internship can not only keep you busy at work today, but also land you your dream job five years down the line. Remember to stay connected with everyone you meet (and add them on LinkedIn)!

August 31, 2015
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Judge Appointed to Rule on Commercial Matters

By Competitiveness, Trade

court-hammer_thumbSaint Lucia will soon have the ability to settle commercial disputes with the appointment of a judge to rule on commercial matters in a timely manner.  High Court Judge -Justice Cadie St. Rose- Albertini was appointed to preside over such matters effective July 1, 2015 for the next three years. The Government of Saint Lucia has identified the establishment of a Commercial Division to its High Court as a high priority reform which will ultimately impact Saint Lucia’s competitive position and its overall development.  In the 2013/2014 Budget Address, the Honourable Prime Minister endorsed the Division and partnered with the Compete Caribbean Program for funding support in its implementation.
This ongoing project is coordinated by the National Competitiveness & Productivity Council and the Ministry of Legal Affairs in collaboration with the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court. Last year, the NCPC with support from Compete Caribbean embarked on the design of the Commercial Division to the High Court based on the experiences of a similar court in the British Virgin Islands which has been internationally recognized as a good model. The design is now complete and the NCPC as well as the Ministry is in the process of taking the necessary steps to establish the Division.
Additionally, the establishment of this mechanism will increase Saint Lucia’s competitiveness in the regional and international market. The World Economic Forum defines competitiveness as
“The set of institutions, policies and factors that determine the level of productivity of a country.”
Therefore, the presence of a set of institutions in a country that support businesses results in increased productivity and competitiveness. Thus, the operations of a Commercial Division can impact the competitiveness of a country through the promotion of business and investment prospects. The Commercial Division may contribute to a healthy investment climate which encourages investment into the country thus leading to economic growth.
This project will mark the start of enhancing the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking for Saint Lucia and the overall business climate, through the Enforcing Contract indicator. For a number of years, this has been one of Saint Lucia’s worse performing indicators. That is, in 2015 Saint Lucia ranks 145 out of 189 economies on this indicator. On average, it takes 635 days and 46 procedures to settle a commercial dispute. Saint Lucia’s low ranking on this indicator is mainly due to the long delays in the trial and judgment phase. Frequently, after a case is filed, the parties have to wait over a year for a court date.
In general, the hiring of a Resident Judge to rule on commercial disputes will result in the speedy and efficient resolution of commercial disputes permits the court to be competitive and to support the business sector. In countries where contract enforcement is efficient, businesses are more likely to engage borrowers and customers which will translate to more business activity for firms.
It is expected that the new Division will be formally opened by the end of this year. It is anticipated that the Division will increase the efficiency of the legal system to settle commercial matters including contract enforcement.
The establishment of the Commercial Division cannot be realised without the associated legislative amendments or changes. It is expected that amendments will be made to the Code of Civil Procedure and the Civil Code as well as other pieces of legislation pertinent to the operations of the Commercial Division.  Compete Caribbean has provided support for the revision of these pieces of legislation and will also assist in equipping the court.

August 31, 2015
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What is your idea of a productive summer vacation?

By Productivity, Self Improvement, Tips

Productive Summer Vacations Are The Most MemorableHave you ever asked yourself ‘what makes a good summer vacation’? Some feel that a favourable vacation consists of simply laying back and doing as little as possible.  They see a vacation as a period of time when schedules are banished and deadlines are ignored. There are others however who live life under the premise that every second of every day must be spent in a structured and orderly way. They believe that no period of time should be unregulated and thus wasted. How an individual spends their time off is a personal decision, and no one way should ever be viewed as wrong but for those who would prefer to follow a productively active plan, there are some actions that can be taken to help you do so.
Wake Up Early
Nothing eats away at your summer break like staying beneath the covers for most of the morning.  Decide the previous day when you will get out of bed, then make sure to follow through. During the first few weeks of your vacation, chances are that you will relish the opportunity to sleep in. It’s okay to do this and to give yourself a break but try not to make it a practice throughout the duration of your holiday as you may well end up spending the entire time in bed.
Maintain Good Health and Hygiene
Just because you are not obligated to leave your home every day during your vacation, it does not mean that you have to let yourself go. Take care of your health and hygiene.  You may also consider taking some summer fitness classes to get into shape or to help improve on the great shape that you already have.  If you are not too interested in joining a formal fitness club or group you should still try to get outside and have fun every day.
Study
Research a topic of interest, make some time to find out about something new. Your studying does not have to be limited to a book or the internet however. Go out to a museum, a gallery or a library to find out more about the chosen subject.  If you are a student, remember that studying remains essential throughout the school year. Look over last year’s notes or do some research into what next year’s courses have in store. When school resumes, you`ll be grateful that your academic knowledge and skills have not deteriorated.
Join a Volunteer Group
There are always groups around the community in need of some help. Give up some of your time to help out. You will feel a great sense of accomplishment.
Go To Camp
Camps do not only pertain to children. Adult camps may be in operation under a different name or format.  Ask around, you may be surprised at how many adult community activities are in operation that offer the chance of learning something new.  You could learn to write, draw, bind books, make photo albums, knit and so much more. Try something new and different, something that you know nothing whatsoever about and you will gain a new skill and possibly find a lifelong hobby to love.
As stated, everyone has their own idea of what makes a good summer vacation and no one way is better than another but if you are not travelling abroad or planning anything elaborate for your summer break you can still make it memorable by making it productively active.

July 8, 2015
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Important Productivity Lessons for Children

By Productivity, Self Improvement, Tips, Youth
Productivity Lessons Can be Learnt From A Young Age

Productivity Lessons Can be Learnt From A Young Age

Defining the concept of productivity to a child can prove challenging. The children’s online dictionary ‘kids.net.au’, defines productivity as “the quality of being productive or having the power to produce.”  It is also listed as being “the ratio of the quantity and quality of units produced to the labour per unit of time.”  It is questionable however as to whether either of these definitions could be easily understood by a child. Therefore, to better assist children with a coherent understanding of the concept of productivity, parents must resort to a more practical approach through demonstration of productive practices, explaining the productive elements to be found within each approach. With continuity in the practice of teaching and employing everyday practical productivity practices, a combination of efficiency, good preparation, effective use of learning tools and materials will prove evident in the children’s need always to execute all tasks to the best of their ability.
Simple productive habits to be demonstrated to your children include,
Take Notes to Remember Something Important-
Taking notes eliminates the prospect of your child having to try to recollect information at a later date. Trying to remember important information that has not been written down can prove time consuming. In taking notes, the knowledge needed is always at hand. If your child does not like the prospect of carrying around a pencil and a notepad, get them to use their tablet or smartphone. It is the action of note taking that is important, not the instrument that they use to do so.
Put Things Back Where They Belong-
This action not only prevents the home from becoming cluttered, it actually saves your children from wasting time in the future. By placing items back where they belong, the prospect of having to look for them at a later date is eliminated. This practices teaches a very effective time saving strategy.
Do Not Put Tasks On Hold Until the Last Minute-
Using the time allocated for a certain project properly, will help improve your child’s time management skills. Effective use of the time given to complete a project will also allow your child to carry out the task at hand to the best of their ability.
Pack Your Belongings the Night Before-
By making this simple task into a habit, your child will be able to observe the effects of good preparation. Getting ready for school in the morning takes time. This task illustrates how effectively this can be done once they have packed their school bag the night before. They will also be able to see how this exercise plays a vital role as it pertains to the time they get to school in the morning and how it allows for them to be properly organised in advance.
 
The Better You Communicate, the Better You Will Be Understood-
Children should be taught from a young age that communication is key. The better they are at communicating, the more likely they will be understood by those they are communicating with. Better communication helps to prevent false assumptions. Good communication allows for messages to be received and responded to efficiently. It dispels confusion, eliminating the possibility of time being wasted on a wrong action.
Not all children are keen on learning new lessons, especially when it means that they have to change the way in which things are done. However once a lesson becomes a habit, and the worth of each habit is realized your child will be appreciative of the productivity lessons instilled in them at a young age. It is only right to place children on the correct path which will lead to them becoming productive adults. In this way, they will be better prepared for their lives ahead.

July 3, 2015
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A Productive Job Search

By Productivity, Self Improvement, Tips
Carry Out A Productive Job Search

Carry Out A Productive Job Search

Productivity is a necessity within all aspects of life. Whether old or young, employed or unemployed, productivity is key. That being said, for those seeking employment productivity plays an exceptionally important role. Having a high level of unemployment means that when a job opening exists, hundreds, if not thousands of individuals will be found applying for the same job. It should therefore be the objective of each applicant to ensure that their respective applications are set apart from all others thus securing them a place in the interview process and ultimately success in landing the job.
In the interim, ensuring positive results begins with a ‘productive’ job search.
A productive job search must be handled like a full time job, with schedules and varying strategies being adopted.  The process may be time consuming and a little stressful, but the end result will be well worth it as the objective is to ensure that the job seeker gets employed.
There are ten basic parts to a successful and productive job search. They include:

  • Networking; Maintaining current contacts and making new ones.
  • Monitoring of Online Presence; Most companies effect online searches on their prospective employees therefore it is important that your online profile exhibits a positive portrayal of yourself.
  • Searching For Jobs; An active effort must be made to constantly check listings and other avenues for employment opportunities and job openings.
  • Researching Companies; Be knowledgeable of the companies for which job openings exist. Ensure that you align yourself with the work of the company and its vision.
  • Updating Resumes; Your resume must be constantly updated to include new and relevant information.
  • Writing Cover Letters; Your resume must be accompanied by an eye-catching, well written cover letter. This document must articulate your potential as the right candidate for the job.
  • Applying To Jobs; Unwavering pursuit of employment must be evident in the approach to writing and dispatching job applications – remain actively engaged in this practice.
  • Following Up on Applications; Never assume that your application was received. Follow up with a short email or a phone call to confirm receipt.
  • Interviewing For Jobs; Be readily available when called upon for job interviews.
  • Following Up on Interviews; Always thank the organisation for having made the time to see you and enquire about the next stage of the hiring process.

Alongside the aforementioned, there are other strategies that aid in making the process of looking for a job more productive. For example, a job seeker should:

  • Make Plans

Allocate certain days for certain activities and stick to the schedule. For example make Mondays, and Wednesdays the days to follow up with networking contacts and Tuesdays and Thursdays the days to research new companies worth applying to. Fridays could then be reserved for following up on any job applications sent off the previous week.

  • Maintain a Spreadsheet of Activities

Information spreadsheets are a vital aid for jobseekers. They help by keeping them up to date and on track of where they are within the whole job seeking process. Included should be all information relating to all jobs applied to. Note down the names of the companies contacted, the date applications were sent off, the individuals contacted and the dates when follow up activities should begin. It is also advisable to have a networking spreadsheet which should contain all relevant information pertaining to all networking carried out.

  • Always Rework Resumes and Cover Letters for Specific Jobs

It may not be necessary to rewrite an entire resume and cover letter for every job, but certain keywords, the summary of qualifications, and the letter’s content should be updated for each job. This will take longer than sending out the same standard cover letter and C.V but applications will be much more targeted, making them more effective.
Anyone who has ever been unemployed would agree that when looking for a job, it can be disheartening when applications are continuously sent out with there being little to no positive feedback. However, the key is never to give up! Persistence coupled with a productive action plan will help bring about a productive output. One which will give rise to the right person being hired for the right position, within the right organisation.

June 29, 2015
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Maintaining A Productive Staff

By Productivity, Self Improvement, Tips
Maintaing A Productive Staff Does Not Have To Be Hard Work

Maintaining A Productive Staff Does Not Have To Be Hard Work

Every good business owner or successful supervisor works hard at giving their staff the encouragement they need for them to be productive.  This creates the right environment needed to support strong individual contributions and full team participation alike. Employees are then able to provide the best in service for clients.
That having been said, a conscientious manager is one who is also aware of the fact that employees fall into varying categories, each needing to be managed and held accountable to high standards. When individuals are not held to the same high standards as their colleagues, team morale is destroyed and productivity is weakened.
In his article ‘Getting The Best From Your Staff’, Ian Ferguson, contributor to the Bahamas Tribune lists the categories that employees fall into as being,

  • The Highly Motivated and Competent Employee
  • The Highly Competent and Discouraged Employee
  • The Hard Working and Dedicated, Yet Low Skilled Employee and
  • The Low Skilled, Low Productivity Employee.

The Highly Competent and Motivated Employee
These individuals are seen as being the prized jewel within any organisations crown. They give 100% effort, are self-starters and have a lot to offer. They enjoy their work and so they give their all when trying to achieve company objectives.
Even though this category of employee contains highly competent individuals, they should still be given the opportunity to grow through new assignments, expanded roles and positive reinforcement.
The Highly Competent but Discouraged Employee
The highest number of employees fall within this category. These individuals have a lot to offer, but their attitude towards work has become jaded. This has resulted in their resolve being to do the bare minimum.
There are many reasons why an employee might find themselves within this category. From disillusionment to boredom, the cases vary. Regardless of the reason, these employees must be identified and communicated with. Quick action can result in them becoming some of the most valued assets to a company. Strides must be taken by those in charge to re-engage them within meaningful tasks, with their efforts being applauded along the way.
The Hard Working yet Low Skilled Employee
Many leaders make the mistake of confusing hard work, commitment and dedication with efficiency and competence. Some would actually argue that it is so rare to find people with good work ethic these days that once found these employees should simply be rewarded for their efforts. This is not always the best approach. A hard working dedicated employee who is low skilled should be encouraged continuously to improve on their competency. An individual such as this is indeed a credit to any organisation, but imagine how productive a worker they would be within the company if they were fully trained within their role. These employees must be inspired to engage in talent development initiatives and supported along the way. This will bring about a proficient and well-rounded employee.
The Low Skilled, Low Productivity Employee
There will always come a point in time when a business owner or supervisor will find this individual under their directive. It often baffles onlookers as to how these employees have been allowed to continue within their role without reprisal. The fact is that their lack of productivity is noted, yet many in a leadership role believe that it is only fair to give them the chance to improve on their performance. Opportunities given are seldom ever taken however.
Ferguson states’
‘Companies must make the sometimes difficult yet necessary decision to release such employees, once every effort has been made to build capacity and provide training and learning opportunities for them.’
Keeping this type of employee on as part of any working team often leads to a drop in morale amongst other more productive and committed members of staff. It would be wrong to ever let this happen.
Differing personalities make up the staff of any given company or organisation. Each has within them their own level of dedication to the organisation and as such they each deliver a varied level of service. By knowing the staff that work alongside them on a day to day basis, their personalities and their skills, a good manager is able to motivate each individual in the right way. This in turn bringing about a high level of productivity from all in employ.

June 29, 2015
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TEAM DIVERSITY AND YOUR COMPETITIVE EDGE

By Competitiveness, Productivity, Tips
Are you a planner, prioritizer, visualizer or aranger

Are you a planner, prioritizer, visualizer or an arranger

It takes a lot to be a competitive company within the global marketplace. From focussing on customer values, to being innovative with new processes, services and products. It is hard work maintaining a competitive edge! To remain ahead of the competition, supervisors must be attentive to all aspects involved in making the company a success; continuously assessing how each facet functions.
An element that continuously needs to be assessed is that of the company’s staff. The presence of a variable, competent and capable staff can at times make or break an institution.  Many a time, it is the way in which staff carry out their day to day tasks and implement innovative ideas that guarantees success. However, not all staff members are the same. Individuals often have their own work style and it is an amicable mix of these work styles that often gives a business its distinct competitive edge.
Within her article ‘Your Team May Have Too Many Prioritizers and Planners’ in the Harvard Business Review, author Carson Tate lists the four types of workers needed in a successful company. They are planners, prioritizers, arrangers and visualizers.  Planners and prioritizers can be described as individuals who are analytical, linear and data and detail orientated. They pride themselves on their ability to be undoubtedly organized, precise and committed to honouring deadlines. Whilst arrangers and visualizers are supportive, expressive, and emotionally intelligent big-picture thinkers. They generate ideas and take risks.
In a recent assessment conducted by the Harvard Business Review over 46,000 people were evaluated to identify their personal productivity style. Specific questions were asked to help people to self-analyse and recognise how they think, learn and communicate best. On evaluating the results certain trends were found. Forty-seven percent (47%) of participants were recognised as Prioritizers, whilst thirty-seven percent (37%) illustrated the traits of Planners. These work styles align with the expectations and key drivers of performance in many of today’s leaner, more streamlined organisations, therefore they are a necessity. Easily recognisable for their abilities, prioritizers and planners are usually the most likely to get promoted.
Only 19% of those assessed turned out to be Arrangers, whilst 18% demonstrated Visualizer tendencies. However, companies need people of all types. Due to this Arrangers and Visualizers also have their importance. Think about it, if companies are unable to connect with their customers offering break through products and services, no amount of prioritizing and planning will ensure the long term viability of the company.
Managers and supervisors as leaders need to know and understand their own work style and those of their employees ensuring a balance of thinking and approaches. Realistically, most organisations probably won’t have a team in which Prioritizers, Planners, Arrangers, and Visualizers are all equally represented. However, new people or outside experts can be brought in to bridge the gaps. In preparation for this it is important to find out what work styles the workers in the workplace presently exhibit. By giving each person a new project to work on, their work style can be determined. On receiving information about the new task each staff member will have questions of their own pertaining to it. The questions asked will give some indication as to what category they fall under.
Faced with a new project, for example, Prioritizers would ask:

  • What is the goal?
  • What is the deadline?
  • What data or facts are necessary?
  • What metrics will be used to evaluate success?

Planners would ask:

  • How will the project be delivered?
  • How will the project be completed? Is a project plan necessary?
  • How will information about the project be communicated?

Arrangers would ask:

  • Who are the project stakeholders?
  • Who else needs to be involved?
  • Who can support you in achieving the goals of the project?

Visualizers would ask:

  • What are the gaps between where you are today and where you want to be at the end of the project?
  • Why does this project matter to the team and the organization?
  • What barriers can you foresee that will need to be addressed as you implement this project?

If you’re leading a team that is heavily weighted toward one or two work styles, recognize the value in rebalancing it. Work style diversity is the making of a productive team that will focus on all aspects – the big picture and the details, ideas and execution and purpose and profits.

June 15, 2015
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Government Approves Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Policy Framework

By Competitiveness, Productivity, Trade

PPP-project-rfp-componentsIn March 2015, the Government approved a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Policy framework for Saint Lucia.  The Policy which details the criteria for engaging in PPPs will provide an alternative source of funding to the Government in meeting the infrastructure and public sector needs while at the same time ensuring fiscal and debt sustainability.
A Public-Private Partnership (PPP) is defined as a “long term contract between a private party and a Government agency, for providing or managing a public asset and associated services, in which the private party bears significant risk and management responsibility.
PPPs can help increase the availability, quality and resilience of infrastructure and other public assets, and associated services while reducing fiscal commitment and risk involved in providing them.  PPPs can help mobilize additional funding and financing sources for infrastructure and public services.  In addition to providing value for money, PPPs provide for adequate maintenance funding, innovation and efficiency, focus on services delivery and accountability.
With the approval of the Policy, the Government will now be able to engage in long term contractual relationships with private sector entities which will introduce resources and expertise into the delivery of public assets and services.
Assistance for the Policy was provided by the World Bank and consultations were held with both the private and public sectors in its formulation.  This initiative was coordinated by the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) in collaboration with the Department of Finance.
The Policy has several objectives as follows:

  • providing value for money – PPPs will be structured to achieve the optimal combinations of benefits and costs to the Government and users;
  • fiscal responsibility where the impact of PPP projects is well understood, expected costs are affordable and the level of fiscal risk is acceptable;
  • transparency and probity in how PPPs are identified, developed, procured and managed;
  • environmental and social sustainable impacts of PPP projects will be carefully assessed and managed appropriately; and
  • partnership and inclusiveness where PPPs meet and balance the objects of all interested parties – the government agency and its private sector partner, end users, employees and other stakeholders. It is expected the PPPs will be managed through a spirit of partnership and cooperation to achieve common goals of improved infrastructure.

The PPP Policy sets out the following:

  • The definition of PPP and the essential features of PPP contracts;
  • The objectives and scope of the PPP programme, in the context of Saint Lucia’s developmental objectives, and the specific objectives of this PPP policy;
  • Processes by which PPP projects will be identified, developed, procured and managed – including how the Government will treat unsolicited proposals;
  • Institutional responsibilities for the PPP Programme, and for developing, implementing, and approving PPP projects;
  • Key commercial principles by which PPP contracts will be structured;
  • The right approach to managing the fiscal implications of PPP projects
  • Mechanisms for ensuring transparency and accountability in the PPP Programme.

The work of the PPP focal team will be strengthen by technical support through the Caribbean Development Bank.

May 26, 2015
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Competitive Countries in the Caribbean

By Competitiveness, Productivity, Trade

Competitiveness refers to is the ability of a country to export goods and services, while increasing the incomes of its citizens. Therefore, competitiveness focuses on developing optimum conditions in the country to promote economic growth.  In turn, these conditions would be ideal for producing quality exports of goods and services that create economic growth through job creation, increased foreign exchange, the creation of new businesses, increased sales for domestic businesses etc.
A country should focus on its competitiveness in order to survive both in the domestic and international arena. It is critical that policymakers focus on increasing Saint Lucia’s competitiveness as the country has experienced consecutive years of negative growth and high rates of unemployment. It is therefore important to learn important lessons from our neighbours that have attempted to a certain extent to increase their levels of competitiveness. These lessons can be tweaked to suit the local Saint Lucian economy.
The Global Competitiveness Report prepared by World Economic Forum (WEF) annually measures the level of competitiveness of 144 countries by focusing on the pillars which are crucial in achieving national competitiveness. The 2014-2015 WEF Competitiveness Report ranks Barbados (55), Trinidad and Tobago (86) and Jamaica (89) as the top Caribbean countries on the list. These countries continue to implement a number of reforms to increase the competitiveness of their economies. While Saint Lucia is not included in this ranking, we can learn from some of the reforms undertaken by these economies to improve Saint Lucia’s economic standing in the global and regional market.
Barbados has scored fairly well in terms of having a fairly skilled labour force due to a high-quality education system and high enrolment rates in secondary and tertiary education. It also has solid infrastructure and generally well-functioning institutions.
Currently, Barbados is in the process of implementing a Competitiveness Program which seeks to address some of the key areas that have constrained the improvement in the competitiveness profile of Barbados over the years. The program consists of several sub components that are currently being implemented. One of the projects that have made significant progress is the establishment of the Electronic Single Window. This system will allow traders to submit all required documents through a single electronic gateway, instead of submitting the same information numerous times to different government entities.
Although Trinidad has implemented a number of reforms aimed at enhancing its competitiveness.  One project that is on-going which can be tweaked to suit Saint Lucia‘s case is a Foresight and Innovation Network.  This project involves the development of an online social network to engage and connect champions of innovation, critical thinking, creativity and entrepreneurship in Trinidad. The project seeks to build a new generation of people with the right attitudes and mind set to build a competitive economy. The results of the program so far are as follows:

  • Eleven business investment projects have been supported by this project.
  • Youth between the ages of 15-18 years have received training in developing their critical thinking skills.
  • An Entrepreneurship and Innovation Club was established with over 1,320 members.
  • Several networking sessions for entrepreneurs have been organised.

The Government of Jamaica has focused on developing the competitiveness of its people through a number of initiatives aimed at helping students become problem solvers and innovators. Some of the initiatives launched by the education ministry include: Jamaica Tablet Program, Start –up Weekend Jamaica, Digital Jam Apps Competition and Kingstoon Animation Festival. As such, a brainchild developed by two students is the AgroCentral app.  This app minimizes produce waste and supports food security.
Local farmers who cultivate top-quality produce often have a hard time selling their entire crop to the market and have to deal with spoilage. To solve this, the app serves as the first ever digital clearing house in Jamaica. It links hotels and restaurants directly with small farmers. Therefore, clients are able to identify and purchase large quantities of produce. The young entrepreneurs plan to launch this app outside of Jamaica.
The Government of Saint Lucia established the National Competitiveness & Productivity Council (NCPC) to advocate and monitor actions that affect Saint Lucia’s competitiveness.  One of the first competitiveness projects spearheaded by the NCPC is the establishment of a Commercial Court.  The Commercial Court is expected to deliver an expeditious and cost effective mode of resolving disputes that directly affect the commercial and financial sector in Saint Lucia. The NCPC intends to work with agencies both in the public and private domain to advocate on projects that would enhance the country’s competitiveness.

May 13, 2015
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Enabling Productivity Growth in the Younger Generation

By Productivity, Self Improvement, Tips, Youth

StudyingChildren may not be motivated to do what they are supposed to do, often resulting in their parents exclaiming ‘Why isn’t my child more productive!’ As a result parents carry out various strategies to encourage their children to get on task, many a time to no avail. However, what is seldom recognised is that a child might have one or more good reasons for not doing something; a child may be confused, tired, upset, hungry, or disinterested. He may find the task overwhelming or not fully understand the significance.
The effects of peer pressure may also be a contributing cause for procrastination as could a lack of organizational or time management skills. In effect, there are many reasons why children are not motivated to accomplish their tasks barring the notion that they are deliberately and purposefully counter- productive. In addressing the issue of demotivation amongst children, there are some basic strategies which may be considered to bring remedy to this problem.  As a sequel to last week’s featured article spotlighting teenagers and their approach to productivity, the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) would like to reflect on some of the ways in which parents can assist in the drive towards greater productivity amongst the youth.

  1. Help kids develop a growth mind-set. Emphasize that one step at a time is all it takes to get going placing emphasis on the importance of personal effort. Demonstrate an “I can do it!” attitude. Small accomplishments lead toward bigger ones, so provide children with direct, immediate and constructive feedback so that they can experience success along the way to task completion.
  2. Encourage accountability. Children have to learn to take ownership of what they choose to do (or not do) and face the consequences of their decisions. Talk to your children about it. You might also share with them why you view challenges as opportunities to grow and why buckling down and taking control of a situation is not only gratifying but is also good preparation for other eventualities of life.
  3. Make it meaningful. If a task is not relevant to a child, chances are it will not get done. If it’s interesting and relates to something important or intriguing, or sparks the imagination and connects to the individual’s aspirations, then chances are the child will be motivated to try it.
  4. Pay attention to skill sets. Some children need new or better strategies for pacing, organizing or self-regulation. Help them find solutions to the problems they may be facing. For example, homework-related issues might involve learning to use an agenda or study guide; finding a quiet and well-equipped workspace and removing distractions. A child may also need assistance dealing with instructions, clarifying expectations or breaking a task down into smaller, manageable chunks.
  5. Strive for balance. Everyone needs down time—ample opportunity to relax, play, exercise or just take a break. This is especially important for children. It also gives them a chance to reflect and to create and consolidate ideas.
  6. Believe in the child. Help children develop self-confidence by appreciating their efforts and past successes. Allow them to see these successes as stepping-stones to future positive experiences and outcomes. Let children know that you are available to listen and to offer reinforcement and guidance as they continue to persevere.

Parents are well positioned to provide all of this and more, in order to facilitate their child’s productivity. By being attuned to your child’s individual needs and patterns of avoidance, it is possible to find the best kinds of strategies for a given situation. Remember to be patient, supportive, and resourceful and it will be possible to address avoidance situations as they arise.

April 30, 2015
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