Child Safeguarding Awareness Training Equips Employers in the CIFEC Internship Programme to Protect Vulnerable Youth

On Wednesday, 28 February, employers participating in the Cayman Islands Further Education Centre (CIFEC) Internship Programme convened at the institution for a Child Safeguarding Awareness Training event aimed at equipping them with the necessary tools to recognise and respond to signs of abuse among young interns.

The event, organised by CIFEC’s Career Services Manager, Jenine Stewart, saw a diverse group of companies, including the Security Centre, Warren Greene Ltd; Cayman Rehab Services, Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa, Marbri Salon, Glo Beauty Bar, Kirk Freeport, Salon F.A.B.’ Exclusive Immigration Consultant Agency, La Mer Spa, A.L. Thompson’s and the Cayman Islands Fire Service, come together to prioritise the safety and well-being of the youth under their supervision. 

The CIFEC Internship Programme provides students with valuable work experience for two days per week from October to April.

Recognising the importance of a safe and secure environment for these students, supervisors overseeing them are mandated to complete Child Safeguarding Awareness Training to enhance their understanding of how to identify signs of abuse, what steps to take if abuse is suspected, reporting guidelines and more.

Participant Diandra Fowler of Exclusive Immigration Consultant Agency shared her insights on the significance of the training, highlighting how it benefited her personally and emphasised the positive impact it would have on her company. She said, “The training was informative. We were given education, which is the premise of progress. We are all left armed with information and strategies to deal with Child Safeguarding issues that may arise during the time that interns are with us. We now understand the different types of abuse and how to report our suspicion of abuse”.

Another participant, Allene Cruz, HR Administrator at the Security Centre, added, “I highly recommend this training to all employers as a great initiative for maintaining safety in our community and workplace.”  

The training session was led by Mr. Suman Bavi, Child Protection Officer and School Counsellor, who brought a wealth of expertise and experience to the event. Through interactive discussions and practical scenarios, participants were empowered with the knowledge and skills necessary to safeguard the well-being of the interns under their care. 

This training offered each school year fulfils one part of the training requirements for companies participating in the CIFEC Internship Programme. The first Child Safeguarding Awareness Training for the current school year was held in September. 

The CIFEC Internship Programme continues to foster the growth and development of Cayman’s youth.

For information on how to become a CIFEC work placement provider, please contact Careers@cifec.edu.ky .