On Friday, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Minister of Education Priya Manickchand inaugurated the St. Ignatius Practical Instruction Department (PID) in Lethem, Region 9. This important milestone reflects the government’s dedication to enhancing the accessibility of quality technical and vocational education throughout Guyana, especially in hinterland areas.
The establishment of the St. Ignatius PID is part of the Guyana Skills Development and Employability Project (GSDEP), which is financed by an $11.7 million loan from the Caribbean Development Bank, in conjunction with government support.
The initiative aims to bolster Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) through improved infrastructure, modern equipment, and better-trained instructors capable of delivering industry-aligned programs.
The advanced facility will provide Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) certifications at Levels 1 and 2 across five key sectors: tourism and hospitality, construction, ICT, agriculture, and business.
In his speech, President Ali reiterated the government’s commitment to enhance the TVET sector to meet increasing labor demands and to shift societal perceptions regarding technical education, which is often viewed as inferior. He emphasized the importance of practical skills, stating, “Practical Instruction Centres and technical education do not represent diminished education.”
Minister Manickchand supported this vision by noting the substantial progress in educational infrastructure, including numerous new schools, and the necessity for corresponding teacher training, aiming to improve regional educational outcomes further.
Source: newsroom.gy
