GREAT BAY----The Department of Youth, within the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, has concluded the 28th Annual Business Outreach & Placement Program, BOPP 2026, with 81 young people completing workplace placements, training and employment experiences across St. Maarten.
The four-week program connected participants with Government ministries and departments, private-sector organizations, foundations, statutory bodies and community partners, giving them an opportunity to experience the responsibilities and expectations of the workplace firsthand.
Among the standout outcomes from this year’s program was one participant who secured his dream job as a chef assistant at a local restaurant. After being connected with the opportunity through BOPP, the student was offered a full-time position and withdrew from the program to begin his employment.
The Department of Youth said the achievement reflects one of BOPP’s core objectives: creating pathways through which young people can turn workplace exposure into tangible employment opportunities.
The Department has also observed an encouraging increase in organizations recognizing the potential of BOPP participants and extending employment opportunities to young people following their placements. According to the Department, this demonstrates the role work-experience initiatives can play in connecting education and skills development with the labour market.
Throughout the program, students were exposed to workplace culture while developing skills in areas such as teamwork, discipline, responsibility, communication and professional conduct.
Across the Government apparatus, participants were assigned meaningful tasks and supported the daily operations of the ministries and departments in which they were placed. Their participation also provided an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of public service and the responsibilities involved in serving the community.
Several participants also received direct exposure to work within St. Maarten’s public infrastructure sector. BOPP students worked alongside the Public Works Infrastructure Department, assisting with the painting of street markings and gaining firsthand experience with the work involved in maintaining public infrastructure.
The Department of Youth expressed appreciation to Government ministries and departments that accepted BOPP participants, as well as to supervisors and staff who provided mentorship and guidance throughout the four-week placement period.
Recognition was also extended to private-sector companies, foundations, statutory bodies and community organizations that supported the program and provided opportunities for participants.
Longstanding BOPP partner KFC was among the organizations recognized for its continued involvement. KFC also contributed toward the program’s closing activities for participating youth.
The BOPP Coordinator stressed that preparing young people for employment requires cooperation among Government, schools, families, businesses and the wider community.
“Preparing our youth for the world of work is a shared responsibility. As we create opportunities for them to learn and grow, we must also encourage our young people to understand that opportunity comes with responsibility. Healthy work ethics, respect, accountability and integrity must be instilled as foundational values. When Government, schools, parents, businesses and the wider community work together, we create an environment in which our young people can truly thrive.”
Parents and guardians are being encouraged to continue reinforcing positive work ethics, punctuality, responsibility, respect and integrity at home.
Schools, businesses and community organizations are similarly encouraged to provide young people with opportunities to gain experience, contribute meaningfully and develop the confidence and skills necessary to successfully transition into the workforce.
As BOPP continues to develop, the Department of Youth said it remains committed to strengthening partnerships, evaluating the program and identifying additional opportunities that respond to the changing needs of young people and the labour market.
The conclusion of BOPP 2026 represents another year of workplace exposure and skills development for St. Maarten’s youth, with 81 participants taking part and, for one young person, the experience leading directly to full-time employment.
