E.D.C. To Host Initiative Encouraging Entrepreneurship Among High School Students In Territory

ST. THOMAS — The Virgin Islands Economic Development Commission (E.D.C.), a subsidiary entity of the Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority (E.D.A.), will host the 2016 Community Education Initiative for high school students in the territory regarding topics related to economic development, a press release E.D.A issued late Sunday has made known.

The initiative will begin with a presentation at the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School (I.E.K.H.S.) Library Media Center on Tuesday, April 5, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. This event will be held for students enrolled in the business and/or vocational programs. Other interested students at the I.E.K.H.S. are also invited to attend.

The purpose of the initiative is to educate the territory’s youth about economic development and the E.D.A.’s purpose and offerings. The goal is to help foster the entrepreneurial spirit within young people in the territory, and encourage career choices within the U.S. Virgin Islands, according to the release. E.D.A. says it continues to recognize that this type of activity is an integral part of encouraging economic growth locally.

The topics to be discussed during the presentation will include information regarding the purpose of the E.D.A.; how the programs and services it offers impact the quality of life and add value to the territory; and the opportunities for future employment and entrepreneurship in the U.S. Virgin Islands, educational assistance, scholarships, and internships.

Representatives from the E.D.C., Economic Development Bank (E.D.B.) and the Enterprise Zone Commission (E.Z.C.) will deliver presentations about their respective programs and services, the release adds. The E.D.B. promotes ownership and expansion of small and medium size businesses among Virgin Islands residents. The E.Z.C. works with residents and business owners to revitalize blighted and distressed communities that were once socially and economically vibrant.

For more information, contact Ja’Nelle Forbes at 340-714-1700, ext. 260.