Deputy Governor David D. Archer Jr, 2nd from left, has hailed the relaunch of the Internship Programme as a crucial investment in the future of the Virgin Islands. Photo: GIS/Facebook

Ms Shaayanna Barry of Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) speaking about her experience in the Public Service Internship Programme. Photo: GIS

Mr Javeek Merry of Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) speaking about his experience in the Public Service Internship Programme. Photo: GIS

Speaking during the April edition of his Monthly Message broadcast on April 28, 2025, Mr Archer articulated the broader vision behind reviving the initiative, which had been dormant for several years.

“The programme has been quiet for years. This is the first time it’s been reintroduced, and as you can see and hear, we have great, amazing, and intelligent students. If you only live with us for a very short time, you can see they're ready to become leaders."

New & fresh ideas

Outlining further, he was of the view that the responsibility for the future of the Virgin Islands lies squarely with the next generation.

"It doesn't rest with me. It doesn't rest with you. It rests with the young people who are making their way through school, but really who we have to create a path for."

Addressing the youth in the Territory directly, the Deputy Governor spoke about the need to contribute new ideas and approaches to the Territory at large through the Internship Programme.

"Whatever you see is good, take it in, but what you should bring to the table or what you should add is something new. Never be afraid to say, this doesn't look right, or can we do it differently; Bright minds, young minds should bring not just great work approaches, but they should also bring brand new and fresh ideas, especially in the world of technology."

The relaunch event featured two current interns, both from the Elmore Stoutt High School, Ms Shaayanna Barry, and Mr Javeek Merry, who shared their experiences within the public service.

Wouldn't be a burden

Ms Barry, placed in the Ministry of Finance’s Human Resources Unit, described her placement as "enjoyable" and educational. "I learned how to navigate the EMS (Electronic Management System), edit some files, filing, and stuff around that," she explained.

Reflecting on the value of her experience, she said: “Since I learned the basics, when I graduate and go into the working world, it would be more easier for me to navigate the systems. I wouldn't be a burden on my co-workers."

Meanwhile, Mr Merry, who was assigned to the Department of Trade and Consumer Affairs, in his reflection, remarked: "It was a very nice experience because we got to learn multiple things that help us increase our knowledge standard; We learned about trade licences and stuff like that. We would definitely like to learn more."

According to Deputy Governor Archer, “As a society, we have to make sure that we recognise intelligence in its very raw form, be able to let persons make mistakes, correct those mistakes, but let them know that’s part of the process. Because I have been given the chance, I am always going to be on the forefront of saying, everyone can do it once you give persons the opportunity."