GTI to get $140M state of the art building

Students attending the Government Technical Institute will benefit from a brand-new state of the art building, in the next nine months. The $140M project is part of a public-private partnership between the Education Ministry and the Ken Subraj Foundation, a former student of GTI. It was disclosed that once completed the building will boast an oil and gas laboratory, lecture theatres, smart classrooms, Welfare Unit, and an administrative block among many other amenities.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed followed by a sod-turning ceremony at GTI’s Woolford Avenue compound on Tuesday. Permanent Secretary at the Education Ministry, Alfred King stressed the Ministry’s mission to improve technical and vocational skills training throughout the country. He pointed out that with the current developmental trajectory the country is on, it is important to modernize education delivery and to equip persons with the necessary skills needed to take advantage of the opportunities. “The working environment is dynamic and is evolving and for our training to meet the needs of the learners and possible employees and to of course be relevant, then we will have to be at the cutting edge knowing what is required to take us to that next century,” PS King said.

Deputy Chief Education Officer responsible for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (DECO-TVET), Dr Ritesh Tularam expressed similar sentiments in deeming the project “momentous” as it will ensure the equitable and quality deliverance of TVET education. Project Manager, Richard Mahase revealed that Ken Subraj credits GTI for his many successes as it was the institution that molded him. As such, Subraj wanted to give back to its staff and students.

“Today, in our small way, as a small team the rehabilitation of the quadrangular building at GTI will make it better for hundreds of students; so when they look back, they would have seen that the movers and shakers of their time, were caring and proactive to their needs,” Mahase said. GTI’s Principle, Dr Renita Crandon in expressing remarks at the sod-turning ceremony, expressed gratitude on behalf of the staff and students of the institution.

Meanwhile, Avinash Construction and Scrap Metal Company, Inc. has been contracted to undertake the project and has committed to completing it within the stipulated timeframe.