A two-member delegation from the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment returned home from neighboring Trinidad and Tobago following a highly insightful and impactful study tour. Conducted from August 14 to 18, 2024, the delegation comprised Permanent Secretary Dr. Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel and Manager of the Boys Training Centre (BTC), Ms. Leanna Wallace. The technocrats sought to deepen their understanding of best practices in rehabilitation, diversion, and reintegration programs for children, adolescents, and youth.

The team visited the Youth Transformation and Rehabilitation Centre (YTRC) in Arouca and the St. Jude Home for Girls in Diego Martin during the tour. These facilities are recognized for their innovative approaches and effective therapeutic interventions, which have successfully supported the rehabilitation and social reintegration of young individuals in the Twin Island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

The delegation's primary goal was to study these established models and to bring back valuable insights that can be adapted and applied to the Ministry's upcoming Youth Services Centre and Juvenile Rehabilitation Centre in Saint Lucia. “The information gathered will significantly inform the ongoing preparation of the project document for these new facilities, ensuring that they are grounded in proven practices that address the specific needs of Saint Lucian youth,” noted PS Hippolyte Emmanuel.

The Ministry is committed to incorporating the lessons learned into its programs, with a focus on enhancing the holistic support provided to young people on their journey to recovery and reintegration into society. “By fostering a collaborative approach, the Ministry will share the findings from this study tour with relevant stakeholders, steering committees, and community groups, ensuring that the knowledge gained contributes to the collective effort of strengthening rehabilitation services in Saint Lucia,” Hippolyte Emmanuel asserted.

The Ministry extends its gratitude to the Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago for their hospitality and for facilitating this vital learning experience.