THIRTY persons on Friday graduated from the first Information Training Course at the Buxton/Friendship Practical Instruction Centre (PIC). These persons have received training in life skills, introduction to computers, use of the Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, Power Point and Access, computer repairs and maintenance.
The training was financed through the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF) Programme, which equipped the lab with 15 computers, desks, chairs, and air conditioning units, and also upgraded the electrical system. Mr. Fitzroy Younge, a Buxtonian, facilitated the sessions, ably assisted by villagers.
Dr. Ashni Singh, Minister of Finance, in his remarks at the graduation, stated it was while monitoring the progress of works at the institution that the idea of sponsoring an IT training programme emerged. The idea of this programme was also advocated by a prominent Buxtonian and a member of the Ministry of Finance staff, Mr. Clyde Roopchand, Chairman of the Policy Steering Committee of BNTF, who had also championed the cause for the construction of the PIC.
In the minister’s charge to the students, he encouraged them to share their knowledge with their family members, neighbours, and friends, since no one should miss out on the technological advantages that are sweeping the world today. Dr. Singh stated that Information Communication Technology training is high on the government’s agenda, since it transforms all spheres of our life.
He posited how pleased he was with the new technological vista that is upon us. Ten years ago, no one was employed in the IT sector in Guyana; today more than 4000 young Guyanese boys and girls are directly employed in this sector, providing services to clients in other parts of the world.
Dr. Singh thanked the principal, Mr. Owen Mc Garrell, for the way he has managed the institution and stated that he remains optimistic that more good stories would come out of the facility and moreover, out of Buxton.
The minister charged the principal to continue to have the facility available for training of persons desirous of being trained, and he pledged his and the government’s support for the training of a second batch of students.