The session focused on two key initiatives: the proposed establishment of a Caribbean Desk, intended to improve coordination between municipalities in the Netherlands and the Caribbean Netherlands, and the design of an exchange programme for civil servants from Statia to receive job training within Dutch municipalities, in line with their field of expertise.
Marciano Johns and Irene ten Teijel, both project managers at VNG International, led the presentations and discussions. Their insights provided a clear framework for how such programmes could be implemented and tailored to meet the island’s needs.
Directors and unit managers from the Statia Government contributed actively to the dialogue, emphasising the importance of educational opportunities, capacity development, and the integration of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure long-term impact. VNG International (www.vng-international.nl), the international cooperation agency of the Association of Netherlands Municipalities, has extensive experience supporting local governments around the world with training, governance reform, and institutional development.
The Statia Government looks forward to continuing this promising collaboration as it works to build a stronger, more responsive public service for all.
