November 5, 2022

Kalahngan to the FSM Secretary of Education, Hon. Gardenia Aisek for her visit to Governor Oliver to seek support of and share the FSM Skills and Employability Enhancement Project, which aims to increase vocational and technical skills opportunities in Pohnpei and across the FSM. Joining Secretary Aisek was Education Advisor, Dr. Natalie Nimer and Career and Technical Education Coordinator, Ms. Rachel Salomon.     The project will be the first time the National Department of Education will work with the World Bank, who will be funding this human development project.     Dr. Natalie Nimer shared the background of this project which started at the 2018 Micronesian Presidents summit and later endorsed at the 2019 State and National Leadership Conference (SNLC).  The project will focus on 12th grade students, offering an intensive one year apprenticeship in areas like carpentry, electrical, IT/Computers, Culinary, Hospitality and book keeping.  The proposed location will be in a section of the former PATS High School in Madolenihmw.     Governor Oliver was very pleased to receive Secretary Aisek and her colleagues and was very happy to hear and support the project plans to increase vocational and technical skills for Pohnpeians and all youth in the FSM.

On Friday, November 4, 2022, Governor Oliver delivered welcoming remarks at the 2022 Joint Economic Management Committee (JEMCO) Meeting at Cantero Hall.  JEMCO Vice Chairman, Lorin Robert, introduced the Governor after U.S. Department of Interior Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs, Carmen Cantor, delivered opening remarks as the Chairwoman for JEMCO.       In his short remarks, Governor Oliver welcomed A/S Cantor and the JEMCO delegation from the U.S. and FSM. He welcomed and recognized the heads of the State delegations, Governor Narruhn from Chuuk, Lt. Governor Arthy Nena from Kosrae and Yap Governor’s Chief of Staff, Mr. Francis Itimai.       He noted that as the last JEMCO meeting under the amended compact, it was fitting to be held in Pohnpei where the first JEMCO meeting was held in August 2003.  He highlighted JEMCO’s work to strengthen the management and accountability of economic assistance provided under the amended compact, noting that more can be done to continue doing this.  Governor Oliver expressed gratitude and appreciation for the longstanding bonds of friendship, cooperation and trust between the USA and each state in the FSM.     Presentations highlighting the Education, Health and Infrastructure sectors were given to the JEMCO members.  A presentation on Audits was also presented by FSM Public Auditor, Mr. Haser Hainrick.     At the conclusion of the meeting a resolution was shared that approved, among other things, the funding for the construction of the Pohnpei Emergency Operations Center (EOC).