BIT programmes being capitalised by hundreds of Region 6 residents

Various training programmes offered by the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) have been commenced by an estimated 300 young people in East Corentyne-Berbice, (Region Six)

The disclosure was made on Wednesday by Labour Minister, Joseph Hamilton, following interactions with participants of various training centres during a-two-day outreach to the region.

Hamilton noted that he wants each participant to benefit from the technical job opportunities which will be made available in the oil and gas industry.

The minister disclosed that the interest shown by the region, thus far, demonstrates citizens’ desire to take advantage of training opportunities provided by the government.

Hamilton pointed out that the launch of the first-ever garment construction programme in the Plegt Anker village, East Bank Berbice, will also be taken to Mara, as well as Orealla and Siparuta, villages along the Corentyne River.

The labour minister also commended the increased involvement of women in male-dominated fields, which he believes is a good start for the region, and the country, as a whole.

Hamilton revealed that the training programmes, are the beginning of what citizens should expect from the government to help transform their lives. He said that the government will remain committed to broadening its reach, to provide BIT programmes to ensure a skilled workforce for current and emerging sectors.

“We have about six, seven programmes that are important for us to train persons in large numbers in Regions Five and Six and so many of those programmes are approved,” he noted.

Hamilton revealed that in May, he along with his technical team hosted a skills training consultation with several stakeholders to identify the skill gap in the region, resulting in the series of training programmes being provided currently.

The minister added that since August 2020, over 4000 people have been trained in areas such as small engine repairs, electrical installation, heavy-duty equipment operation, air conditioner and refrigeration repairs, mechanics, welding and fabrication.