Vocational programme targeting youths and adults on the Corentyne
GINA, GUYANA, Tuesday, October 4, 2016
Youths from the Corentyne who were not able to complete secondary school or who would not have performed well at CXC are able to pursue a vocational education through a programme supported by the Board of Industrial Training (BIT). BIT is one of the many youth targeted programmes of the Ministry of Social Protection.
Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence in discussion with owner Yetrawatee Katryan
On a recent visit to Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence stopped at the Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre Incorporated where the programme is being implemented.
Executive Director of the Institution, Yetrawatee Katryan, told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that her institution has been collaborating with BIT over the years and the young persons who participate in the training would find jobs easily.
Katryan expressed her gratitude to Minister Lawrence for her support.
“Quite a number of persons who were trained were employed by GUYSUCO, commercial banks, insurance offices. Some women who are trained in garment making over the years they started their own business as well … Those who have training in electrical installation they would get apprentice for some electrician, spend time get some training then they ,move on to their
Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence with some of the participants of the BIT programme at the Roadside Baptist Church, Skills Training Centre, Incorporated.
own thing,” Katryan said.
Some of the programmes offered include the use of Information Technology, electrical installation, garment construction, tailoring, food and nutrition, cake decoration, child care, office ethics, counseling skills, literacy, computer repairs, cosmetology and catering.
Despite the challenges of absenteeism and lateness, the institution is striving for excellence.
During the visit, Minister Lawrence pledged that her ministry would continue to sponsor the programme. The minister met and spoke with the participants and the teachers of the programme.
The Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre Incorporated a registered Non- Governmental Organisation (NGO) was created through a needs assessment conducted by a Community Outreach Committee.
The institution targets the vulnerable, at risk youths, disadvantaged and abused women and children, school drop outs, women with little or no skills, senior citizens, men and perpetrators of violence.
By Ranetta La Fleur