STUDENTS with an interest in technical and vocational studies will soon have the opportunity to pursue those in Linden, at the Linden Technical Institute (LTI) as the Education Ministry is constructing a dorm on campus to facilitate their accommodation.
According to acting Principal, Ector Anthony, while they were some hiccups in the beginning stages of construction, works are moving apace and students will be able to access the facility by 2021.

One of the initial challenges was that the site chosen was very swampy and excessive time was taken to backfill the land. In addition to that, inclement weather also posed as a delaying factor.

“With my recent visit to the fields, they (the contractors), indicated that they are making progress and they are going at a faster rate, so the completion time is around April, May 2021 and they are on par as it relates to that,” he said.

The contract for the construction of the dorm was awarded to Compustruct Engineering and works began in September 2018.
The complex will consist of four dormitories, a study hall and an administrative building.
It will house students residing in Rockstone, Kwakwani, Ituni, Riversview and the riverain communities in the Upper Demerara and Berbice Rivers.

These students would after training, be able to return to their communities and engage in beneficial employment, utilising their newly-acquired skills.
While students in Linden have hopes of being employed at Bosai Minerals Incorporated, which is located directly in the mining town, students residing in Kwakwani, Ituni and the Riverain communities of the Upper Berbice River can gain employment at the Russian Bauxite Company (RUSAL).

The Linden Technical Institute has been in existence for over 60 years and has been providing technical and vocational education and training programmes. These include a Diploma in Computer Science, Diploma in Administrative Principles and Practices, Ordinary Diploma in Commerce, Craft Certificate in Carpentry and Joinery, Craft Certificate in Electrical Installation, Craft Certificate in Radio Electronic Servicing, Technical Certificate in Mechanical Fitting and Craft Certificate in Metal Machining.

LTI also offers part-time courses in Effective Management Skills and Occupational Health and Safety. In 2018, the institution commenced the delivery of Competency- Based Education and Training, which is the new model of the assessment process that is monitored by the Council for Technical Vocational, Education and Training (TVET).