Urban Oasis graduates told to take advantage of new skills
On Monday, November 23, 2020, 10 young women graduated from the Urban Oasis Cosmetology School with certificates in Nail Technology and Hair Dressing.
At the graduation exercises held at the school’s South Road location under strict COVID-19 guidelines, Advisor to the Minister of Education Ms. Africo Selman told the graduates that the day marked a significant milestone in their lives. She said, “You have laid a firm foundation which would allow you to grow into successful entrepreneurs.”
Ms. Selman advised the graduates that as they venture out to find employment or to become entrepreneurs, they should always practice excellent customer service so that their clients can always feel comfortable.
“Please note that as long as there are people, people will want to look their best so the chance to establish a good clientele and good interpersonal relationship is boundless.”
Further, Ms. Selman reminded the graduates that everyone cannot and should not be lawyers, doctors and teachers or even be employed in the oil and gas industry. She said there is and will always be a need for persons with other skills especially cosmetologists and beauticians.
Ms. Selman congratulated the Administrator of the school Ms. Jennelle Blackman for not only registering with the Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET) but for providing persons with an opportunity to attain academic advancement.
She added that the graduates made a wise decision to seek training at the Urban Oasis Cosmetology School since the institution has commenced the process of getting the school registered with the CTVET.
Ms. Selman said that she is thrilled that the beauty industry in Guyana is alive and well and is providing the necessary education so that those desirous of enhancing the look and ambience of Guyanese people can learn all the trades necessary to so do.
She said that the Government of Guyana supports ventures like this as it provides Guyana with a workforce that is equipped with the requisite knowledge, skills and attitudes to contribute to increased productivity and economic development.
“Our President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali is particularly interested in developing all levels and all kinds of education in Guyana. He believes in empowering the mind and the individual so that they can achieve and fulfil their goals in whatever career path they desire,” Ms. Selman underscored.
Being aware of the effects the COVID-19 pandemic has had on businesses including the beauty industry, Ms. Selman told the graduates not to allow the situation to hinder their progress. She explained that they should ensure that they follow the Ministry of Health’s guidelines and put their newly acquired skills to use.
“Faces are hidden by masks which have become a mandatory part of our daily outfit but women in particular still want their hair and nails done. Many still want manicures, pedicures, facials and massages to take away the stresses of life caused by the pandemic, work or life events,” Ms. Selman remarked.
Director of the CTVET, Mr. Floyd Scott congratulated Ms. Blackman on her journey which includes her completion of a programme in Competency-Based Education and Training that will ensure the school fulfils the total requirement that is expected to provide the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ).
He said that the CVQ is also a skills certification that allows free movement of skills within the Caribbean. He told the graduates that they were in the right place that has prepared them to not only use their skills locally but regionally.
Mr. Scott congratulated the Urban Oasis Cosmetology School on its success and encouraged the graduates to continue to take advantage of the opportunities before them.