Inside CIG’s Student Internship Programme

The Cayman Islands Government Internship Programme allows students to gain exposure to the broad range of careers available in the Civil Service.??

With nearly a thousand different jobs available within the public sector, the programme provides an opportunity for secondary and tertiary students to apply knowledge gained from their studies.??

HR Management Advisor, Charlene Howell-Litchmore , highlights how the CIG Internship programme encourages workforce development and long-term career development.??

“As civil servants, they are able to serve the people of the Cayman Islands in very rewarding ways. During their time with us, we aim to showcase the work of the civil service, as well as the many benefits of being a civil servant” she said.??

The programme has been around for decades facilitating an environment where students can grow individually and as part of the wider organisation.??

“The relationships students develop while networking with colleagues during their employment will often continue to reap benefits throughout their entire careers. I have kept in close contact with many former POCS interns. It’s very rewarding to see them join the civil service, and grow into progressively more senior roles” said Howell-Litchmore.??

Before 2023, students applied to the programme and were then distributed to appropriate departments. Based on feedback, students are now able to apply to departments that align with the areas they wish to gain experience.??

Three CIG Student Internship alumni shared their experiences with us. Hear from Destinie, Christopher and Leilani.??

Meet Destinie Bush ??

Internship: Office Support Assistant/Procurement Officer, CSD?

Currently: Administrative & Procurement Officer, Ministry of Education?

Key takeaways from her experience:??

• Built connections with colleagues which proved instrumental in achieving success??
• Exposed to development opportunities including training and secondments?
• Ability to contribute to the lives of students in the public school system

?What she has to say:??

“Conducting government procurements is quite an intricate process. From understanding budgets to preparing to then actually delivering the procurement project, I’ve developed my skills in project management and delivery.?

Through the internship programme, I had direct access to tools and resources needed to succeed in my career, whether that be through building relationships with other individuals within the organisation to having access to a wealth of information on operational processes and procedures to carry out my job. ??

My managers and mentors also played a significant role in my career growth by providing guidance and direction to reach my professional goals.?

I have also expanded my knowledge within finance, HR and asset management. I am currently in the process of completing my business diploma with City & Guilds through the Civil Service College.”?

??

Meet Christopher Smith ?

Internship: Computer Services Department (CSD) Intern??

Currently: ICT Administrator, Ministry of Education?

Key takeaways from his experience:??

• Passionate about growing within the IT field??
• Developed interpersonal skills by working across multiple departments?
• Completed tertiary education and applied knowledge while gaining experience??

What he has to say:??

I was given a chance to begin my internship with the Computer Service Department full-time while studying part-time to complete my Computer Science degree. I am incredibly thankful for obtaining my Associate’s in Computer Science and the ability to perform at a higher standard and contribute to our “World Class Civil Service".??

I learned a lot about being a Computer Technician while working in CSD, which helped me to obtain my current role. The best part of my experience was being motivated by watching and listening to my mentors and role models.??

There is something new to learn every day, and this is especially true as technology is continuously evolving."

Meet Leilani Eden

Internship: Cayman Islands Further Education Centre (CIFEC) Intern??

Currently: Human Resources Officer, Computer Services Department (CSD)?

Key takeaways from her experience:??

• Gained insight into multiple areas of Human Resources (HR)?
• Developed a growth mindset and willingness to be a life-long learner
• Access to opportunities that enhance passion in her chosen career field??

What she has to say:??

“I have gained extensive experience in all aspects of human resources within government, including recruitment, staff welfare, records management, orientation and onboarding, performance management, advertising, confidentiality and much more.

Gaining the experience and knowledge from my internship has allowed me to thrive in my current position as a Human Resources Officer. I am now able to provide a wide range of operational and comprehensive HR services to my department of sixty-eight (68).?

The highlight of my experience was receiving the Chief Officer’s Choice for developing exceptional leadership. It was a sentimental feeling to receive recognition for my hard work.”?

The CIG Internship programme continues to facilitate an opportunity for young adults to grow within their careers while making the lives of those they serve better.?

Final deadline to submit applications is Sunday, 30 April, 2023. To apply, visit careers.gov.ky.