The Government of Saint Lucia, led by Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre, continues to connect our nation’s youth with tangible and viable opportunities that support their personal and professional development.
In his Independence 45 address to the nation on February 22, 2024, the Prime Minister encouraged young people to capitalize on government programmes like the Youth Economy Agency and MSME Loan-Grant Facility strategically established to give them the tools to unlock their full potential.
"My government is committed to assisting young Saint Lucians and all those who have ideas for businesses, to become successful entrepreneurs and be the new standard bearers of our future economic development through agencies like the Youth Economy, the MSME Small Loan/ Grant facility, the Community Tourism Programme and through the expansion of the technical and vocational education in our schools. Young people seize the opportunities that exist and let’s unleash our creativity for the benefit of our country," said Prime Minister Pierre.
Initiatives like the Youth Economy Agency and MSME Loan-Grant Facility demonstrate the Prime Minister's commitment to our youth. The Youth Economy Agency and MSME Loan-Grant Facility are breaking down barriers by connecting our youth with resources, training, soft loans and grants to fund their ideas and fuel their aspiration. A combined total of (approx.) $3.2 million in soft loans and grants was disbursed to hundreds of approved applicants in 2023.
Prime Minister Pierre is accelerating the One University Graduate Per Household policy. His leadership has paved the way for unprecedented access to financial support for students aspiring to pursue tertiary education.
The Government of Saint Lucia will guarantee loans for every eligible university applicant. This progressive policy action is a game changer for students who do not have the surety or collateral to secure loans from traditional financial institutions. The government’s guarantee will ease the burden on low-income families and make it easier for students to secure loans to pay for college/university.
“To the Youth of Saint Lucia, I say, let us use this occasion of the 45th anniversary of our independence to resolve to further unleash our creativity. Let the world feel once again what we can achieve, what we can accomplish. Let us use our creative talents to build a stronger, more economically powerful nation, a Saint Lucia that can be an example to the world.”