St. Kitts and Nevis allocates EC$54 Million to STEP, explores permanent employment pathways

The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has allocated EC$54 million to the Skills Training Empowerment Programme (STEP) for 2026 and is exploring a transition programme to help participants move into permanent employment, Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew has announced.

The proposed measures are intended to strengthen employment opportunities, improve financial security and address challenges faced by individuals participating in the programme.

Dr Drew confirmed that the government was not planning to discontinue STEP, emphasising that the administration instead wanted to improve the programme and provide participants with greater opportunities for long-term economic stability.

Participants have also benefited from increased wages as part of the government's efforts to improve their financial circumstances.

One issue the administration is examining is access to mortgage financing. The Prime Minister explained that individuals employed through STEP often encounter difficulties qualifying for mortgages because of the nature of their employment arrangements.

To address this concern, Dr Drew said he had asked the Ministry of Finance to examine the matter and explore possible solutions that could improve participants' access to homeownership opportunities.

The government is also considering a transition framework that would help STEP participants move into permanent employment, potentially providing greater job security and opportunities for career development.

Dr Drew said the administration wanted to develop a comprehensive programme that addressed the wider needs of participants and improved their quality of life.

The proposed measures reflect the government's intention to strengthen STEP beyond its immediate employment and income-support functions, with a greater focus on long-term opportunities and financial independence.

The Prime Minister reiterated that the programme would continue as the government examines ways to make it more effective and responsive to participants' needs.