Jamaica is offering a free online training program for hospitality workers affected by the impact of Covid-19.
Online training and certification courses will be delivered by the Jamaica Centre of Tourism Innovation in partnership with the National Restaurant Association and the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute as well as Jamaica's Human Employment and Resource Training.
"The Caribbean is the most tourism dependent region in the world, and tourism accounts for nearly 11% of global GDP, said Edmund Bartlett, the country's minister of tourism. "In Jamaica, we are proud that the program has been well received by our hospitality workers. There is no better time for them to retool and upskill."
More than 6,500 users have registered since the program launched in mid-April. Classes began April 27, and the 11 courses are designed to hone workers' skills and improve qualifications in a variety of positions, including laundry attendant, banquet server and hospitality team leader.
All courses include exams and successful candidates will receive certificates from certifying institutions.