CERTIFIED AND READY TO EARN –
One hundred and thirty-five (135) beneficiaries from Mahaica-Berbice (Region Five) graduated on Friday, August 27, 2021, in courses, such as, Cosmetology, Commercial Food Preparation, Agro-processing, Garment Construction, Welding and Fabrication, Motor Vehicle Repairs, Heavy Duty Equipment Operations and General Office Administration at Hurricane Harbor, located at Number 29 village, West Coast Berbice.
Young persons, single parents and those in need of a second chance at self-development were given the opportunity to pursue Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs offered by the Ministry of Labour, Board of Industrial Training (BIT).
The duration of the courses was between four to six months, with selected trainers from the region who facilitated the beneficiaries at locations, such as, Mahaica-Mahaicony-Abary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA), Young Women Christian Association (YMCA), Sharon’s Beauty Exchange and school of Cosmetology, Sandras Skills Training Centre, Nandras Unisex Salon and Institute of Cosmetology and Tasha’s Reflection.
At the graduation ceremony, Minister of Labour, Hon. Joseph Hamilton was accompanied by Permanent Secretary, Mr. Bishram Kuppen, BIT Chairman, Mr. David Armogan, BIT Vice Chairman, Mr. Rion Peters, Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Richard Maughn, Region Five, Technical Officer, Ms. Jennel Washington, Coop Officer, Ms. Debbie Persaud, Region Six, Technical Officers, Mr. Clarence Shako and Mrs. Tina Ghansham, among other officials.
Words of encouragement were made by officials of the labour ministry to the certified beneficiaries, since they were given the key to unlock their full potential to prepare for the world of work or entrepreneurship.
In his featured address, Minister Hamilton told the graduates that since the ministry was re-established measures were enforced to deliver technical training to persons throughout the length and breadth of Guyana. He added, for far too long, the labour force was starved because of the low delivery rate of technical training to persons who can positively contribute to the country’s economy.
The minister also stressed, that it is important for trainers and trainees who are desirous of pursuing BIT programs be committed to completing an investment that does not burden the pockets of the citizens. Further, he urged the certificate holders to not return home and place their certificates in their living rooms as decoration but seek further academic or technical training that can add to what they would have already acquired from BIT.
At the end of the ceremony, those who were present were a part of a small exhibition prepared by the agro-processing batch of beneficiaries. Products, such as, Pepper Sauce, Achars, Guava Jam, All Purpose Seasoning, Pickles, Corn meal and Barly Flour were made from scratch, properly packaged and labelled.
The Garment Construction batch of beneficiaries did not disappoint either, as they displayed beautiful dresses, cushion covers, kitchen towels, Bonnets, face masks and other pieces made from raw materials provided by BIT.
Another batch of beneficiaries are expected to commence training soon, between the ages of 16 to 45 years. However, older persons or retirees, who are in need to be re-trained in the technical sector are not barred from becoming beneficiaries.
(Board of Industrial Training, Public Relations Department).