Thirty-five residents of Orealla are now certified in Small Engine Repairs and Tractor/Heavy-Duty Equipment Operation through the Board of Industrial Training (BIT).
The graduation ceremony on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, was attended by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning, Ms Indrani Ramnarine; BIT CEO, Mr Richard Maughn; Board Members, Mr Jainarine Sookpaul and Professor Clement Sankat; Orealla Toshao, Mr Laurence Vandenburg; Siparuta Senior Councillor, Mr Neil Wong; Technical Officers, Mr Clarence Shako and Ms Rowena Dejonge; Human Resources Clerk, Ms Adelicia Andries; and other officials.
In her keynote address, PS Ramnarine underscored the importance of skills development for national progress, noting that the programmes provide not only certification but also real pathways to employment. She celebrated the participation of seven women in Heavy-Duty Equipment Operation, highlighting the governmentโs commitment to empowering women in all sectors. She encouraged residents to take full advantage of BITโs free training programmes and upcoming initiatives through GROW and the SCQF Foundation.
CEO Maughn praised the graduates for making the most of BITโs training opportunities and emphasised the value of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in fostering personal growth and enhancing employment readiness. He urged graduates to view their current certification as a foundation for further advancement. He highlighted the BIT Apprenticeship Programme as a leading model for advanced skills training in the Caribbean.
Toshao Vandenburg and Councillor Wong expressed appreciation for the training initiatives and pledged ongoing support for skills development in their communities. In 2026, Orealla and Siparuta are expected to benefit from further programmes, including Information Technology and Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installation.
