Executive Leadership Training Program Launched for Saint Kitts and Nevis Civil Service

Paragraph 1: Investing in Leadership for a Stronger Civil Service

The government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has embarked on a significant initiative to bolster the leadership capabilities of its civil service. Recognizing the crucial role of effective leadership in driving national development, the government launched the CFBC-Jenkins Ltd Executive Leadership in the Civil Service Course. This 12-week program, which commenced on September 11, 2025, is specifically designed for permanent secretaries and directors across various ministries and departments. The course aims to equip these key officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of modern governance and effectively lead their teams towards achieving national objectives.

Paragraph 2: Empowering Leaders for Strategic Direction

The leadership training program emphasizes the importance of strategic thinking and agility in navigating the evolving landscape of public service. Head of the Civil Service, Ms. Thelma Richard, highlighted the transformative nature of the initiative, urging participants to view it as a journey of professional and personal growth. She emphasized that effective leadership transcends mere operational excellence, requiring a strategic mindset capable of defining and redefining the direction of ministries and departments. Ms. Richard expressed confidence that the program would empower participants to lead more effectively within their respective ministries and successfully manage projects and initiatives.

Paragraph 3: Leading by Example: Cabinet’s Commitment to Development

Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, underscored the government’s commitment to providing the necessary tools and resources for effective leadership. He emphasized that it would be a disservice to expect individuals to assume leadership roles without adequate preparation and training. Significantly, Dr. Drew revealed that early in his administration’s term, the entire Cabinet of Ministers, including the highly experienced former Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, underwent leadership training themselves. This demonstrated the government’s unwavering belief in the importance of continuous learning and development for effective governance.

Paragraph 4: Equipping Leaders for Long-Term Success

The Prime Minister highlighted the practical benefits of the leadership training program, noting that participants will receive certification upon completion. This certification will not only validate their newly acquired skills but also enhance their professional credentials throughout their careers. Dr. Drew emphasized that effective leadership is essential for accountability, innovation, and navigating both challenges and opportunities. He stressed that strong leadership provides stability in times of difficulty and ensures that opportunities are seized to benefit the people of Saint Kitts and Nevis. The investment in leadership development is thus viewed as a long-term investment in the nation’s future.

Paragraph 5: A Collaborative Approach to National Development

The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation to the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC) for partnering with the government to design a course tailored specifically to the needs of the civil service. He commended CFBC for its role in national development by providing a relevant and practical program that addresses the specific challenges and opportunities faced by the civil service. This collaboration between the government and educational institutions underscores a shared commitment to strengthening the capacity of the public sector.

Paragraph 6: Recognizing Expertise and Passion in Leadership Development

Both Prime Minister Drew and Ms. Richard expressed their gratitude to Peter Jenkins, the course facilitator and founder of the Jenkins Training Institute, for his invaluable contribution to the program. They acknowledged his expertise and passion for leadership development, recognizing his growing reputation in the field. Mr. Jenkins’ commitment to empowering individuals and building leadership capacity was cited as a key factor in the successful launch of the CFBC-Jenkins Ltd Executive Leadership in the Civil Service Course. The partnership with the Jenkins Training Institute reflects the government’s commitment to leveraging external expertise to enhance the development of its civil service.