Prime Minister’s Office Launches Project L.E.A.D. to Inspire Future Leaders

Project LEAD (Leadership, Engagement, Aspiration, Development), a pioneering initiative spearheaded by the Prime Minister’s Office of Saint Kitts and Nevis, successfully concluded its inaugural six-week internship program on September 1, 2025. The program, designed to immerse high school and first-year college students in the practical realities of governance, civic engagement, and leadership development, offered a unique opportunity for young individuals to gain firsthand experience within various government ministries and departments. This ambitious undertaking stemmed from Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew’s vision to bridge the gap between youth and government operations, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate processes that underpin national administration and policy-making.

The core objective of Project LEAD was to demystify the workings of government, providing participants with a behind-the-scenes perspective often obscured from public view. While students regularly encounter government officials in their schools or through media reports, they often lack insight into the complex mechanisms and daily efforts that drive governmental functions. Project LEAD addressed this disconnect by offering an immersive experience, enabling participants to witness the dedication and hard work required to maintain a functioning society. This exposure aimed to cultivate a more comprehensive understanding of the complexities and nuances of governance, empowering participants to appreciate the intricacies of public service.

The inaugural cohort comprised seven interns strategically placed across various government sectors. These placements encompassed a diverse range of ministries and departments, including the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Social Development, the Ministry of National Security, Customs, the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service (SKNIS), and the Human Resources Department within the Prime Minister’s Office. This strategic allocation allowed interns to experience a broad spectrum of government operations, gaining insights into the diverse functions and responsibilities within each sector. Furthermore, the program emphasized personalized learning by tailoring assignments to align with each intern’s specific career aspirations. For example, aspiring medical professionals were assigned to the hospital, facilitating practical experience within their chosen field. Similarly, students interested in national security gained invaluable exposure through placements with the Citizen Security Secretariat and the Ministry of National Security. This individualized approach maximized the relevance and impact of the internship experience, fostering deeper engagement and personalized learning.

Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew lauded Project LEAD as a significant investment in the future leadership of Saint Kitts and Nevis. He emphasized the importance of empowering young people, recognizing them as current and future leaders capable of shaping the nation’s trajectory. By providing a platform for experiential learning and exposure to government operations, Project LEAD aimed to instill confidence and inspire participants to envision themselves as future decision-makers and agents of change. The program’s focus on mentorship and practical experience sought to nurture essential leadership qualities, providing participants with the skills and insights necessary to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the nation as a whole.

The successful completion of the inaugural Project LEAD program marks a significant step towards fostering youth engagement in governance. The program’s emphasis on practical experience, mentorship, and personalized learning provided participants with a unique opportunity to gain invaluable insights into the workings of government and develop essential leadership skills. By bridging the gap between youth and government operations, Project LEAD aims to cultivate a new generation of informed and engaged citizens equipped to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future.

Looking ahead, the application process for the next cycle of Project LEAD is set to open in May 2026. The program will continue to target fourth and fifth form high school students and first-year college students, maintaining its focus on providing opportunities for young individuals to engage with government and develop their leadership potential. Selection criteria will continue to emphasize academic merit, demonstrated effort, motivation, and leadership qualities, ensuring that the program attracts and nurtures the most promising young minds in Saint Kitts and Nevis. The success of the inaugural program has set a strong foundation for future iterations, promising continued growth and positive impact on the nation’s youth. Project LEAD stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to investing in its future leaders and fostering a culture of active civic engagement.