Wainwright  (05 June 2009) –  Leon Benoit, Member of Parliament for Vegreville-Wainwright, today announced Canada’s support for people in Southern Peru to acquire education and employment. This project is a component of the Skills for Employment Initiative, which aims to help developing countries by building a skilled workforce with strong and relevant technical and vocational education necessary for economic growth.

“This government is committed to increased aid effectiveness, one of the most effective ways Canada can help developing countries is to share our knowledge and expertise in vocational training,” said Mr. Benoit, who made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation. “Canadian partners like the Rainbow of Hope for Children Society have the experience and expertise in technical and vocational training, these skills will benefit the people in Peru. I am pleased today to announce that CIDA will contribute nearly $500,000 to a three-year project in Peru with the Rainbow of Hope for Children Society.”

The program will help 700 people from the District of Chincha Baja in Southern Peru through the rebuilding of the Centre for Occupational Education, destroyed in the 2007 earthquake. These students, of whom 70% will be women, will acquire education and training in the fields of leadership, health education, money management, communications and job searching.

"For developing countries to succeed, basic education is only the first step. They need skilled workers, employment and a growing economy," said Minister Oda." Economic growth is one of CIDA's priority themes. With an effective and results based vocational training program, those living in developing countries will have greater opportunity for jobs and stable income to lift themselves out of poverty. For this reason our government invested in the Skills for Employment Initiative."

The Skills for Employment initiative supports vocational and professional training projects in Africa, the Caribbean and the Andean region. This initiative is a key element of the Prime Minister’s commitment to increase Canada’s engagement in the Americas.