In a landmark ceremony at Port-au-Prince’s Karibe Hotel on January 25, 2026, Haiti’s Ministry of Women’s Affairs celebrated the graduation of 289 women from technical training programs historically dominated by male workers. The event marked the inaugural completion of the “Mylourie Sylfrard” initiative under the Socio-economic Integration Project, specifically designed to empower women through vocational education in non-traditional sectors.
The graduation ceremony gathered distinguished attendees including godmother of the promotion Ms. Raïna Forbin, ministry officials, diplomatic corps representatives, UN agency delegates, and leaders from civil society organizations and training centers. Minister of Women’s Affairs Pedrica Saint Jean emphasized the profound symbolism of the event, noting that these women had successfully completed rigorous training in fields including construction, electrical work, solar energy installation, and emerging technologies.
Minister Saint Jean articulated the government’s commitment to dismantling gender stereotypes and creating genuine equality of opportunity. She framed women’s economic empowerment as essential for achieving social justice, strengthening community resilience, and fostering social cohesion. The initiative aligns with Haiti’s 2014-2034 Equality Policy and contributes directly to multiple Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those addressing inequality reduction and access to dignified employment.
The Minister acknowledged substantial governmental support, including personal backing from the Prime Minister, which has enabled the program’s expansion into additional departments across Haiti.
Ms. Shedelie Phanor, speaking on behalf of the graduating cohort, expressed profound gratitude to governmental authorities and project partners. She challenged her fellow graduates to demonstrate exceptional professionalism in their chosen fields, becoming inspirational references for other women seeking to overcome occupational gender barriers.
The ceremony culminated with the formal distribution of graduation certificates recognizing the beneficiaries’ educational achievements. Participants also received professional toolkits and financial grants specifically designed to facilitate their entry into the workforce and support the launch of income-generating activities.