Maui Part of $12M UH Workforce Development Grant

US Senator Daniel Inouye. Photo courtesy National Institute of Nursing Research.

By Sonia Isotov

The University of Hawaii will receive $12,665,892 to fund workforce development programs.

The programs will include technical training, educational opportunities, counseling and job placement programs on Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii, according to a joint statement released today by Senator Daniel K. Inouye, Senator Daniel K. Akaka, US Representative Mazie K. Hirono and US Representative Colleen Hanabusa.

The money comes from a grant administered by the US Department of Labor through its Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT) program.

University of Hawaii programs and campuses will use the money to expand their education and training services by partnering with the local businesses, state and county government to provide students and residents with the education, training, and counseling needed to break into the Hawaii job market.

“These funds come at a critical time for Hawaii. While statewide unemployment stands at 6.1%, two full percentage points below the national average of 8.1%, the neighbor island counties continue to deal with elevated rates of joblessness. This important investment will help the University of Hawaii expand their offerings on Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii and reach those in need of education and training,” said Senator Inouye.

US Rep. Mazie Hirono. Photo courtesy US Senate.

“Throughout my career in Congress, I have been a strong advocate for higher education and professional training. As a former educator, I know how valuable these skills are in a competitive job market. I am pleased that Hawaii will benefit from this program that will help residents compete for quality jobs, support their families, and give back to their communities,” said Senator Akaka.

“Mahalo to the Obama Administration for supporting Hawaii’s community colleges as they help people learn new skills and get back to work, a key to a strong economy in the short and long term,” said Congresswoman Hirono, a co-sponsor of the 2009 legislation expanding the grant program.

“An investment in education is an investment in our workforce, and we can help Hawaii’s unemployed and veterans get back to work by providing them with the education and job training they may need to continue supporting their families,” said Congresswoman Hanabusa.