– persons applying for CARICOM Skills Certificate must do so online

AS part of the effort to protect members of the public and staff at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and limit the risk of the spread of COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus), persons applying for the Certificate of Recognition of CARICOM Skills Qualification (commonly referred to as the CARICOM Skills Certificate) must submit their applications via the online platform at www.caps.caricom.org.

A release from the Foreign Affairs Ministry said persons utilising the platform will be required to create a profile, scan and upload relevant documents (qualifications; birth certificate; deed poll or other document to support name change, if any; passport size photograph; biodata page of passport; and proof of marital status — if married) to initiate the application process.

As necessary, applicants will be updated and contacted via phone or email on the process and to facilitate the authentication of documents, payment and collection of certificates.

“Please be reminded that information on the free movement of skills and the categories of persons eligible to apply for the Skills Certificate can be accessed at the following link on the Ministry’s website: https://www.minfor.gov.gy/caricom-free-movement-of-skills-overview/.

“Persons requiring further information about the certificate and the application process should contact the ministry via email to minfor@guyana.net.gy and djordan@minfor.gov.gy or telephone (592) 226-1606 ext. 265 or 247,” the release said.

It added: “The Protocol and Consular Department wishes to advise the public that it has become necessary to implement preventive measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a consequence, the department is incorporating a number of procedures, including staff rotation, social distancing and the general sanitisation of the work environment.”

In view of the foregoing, the release noted that members of the public will be given limited and restricted access to the department and staff members with immediate effect.

The release explained that while it is not intended that there is a total cessation of the operations of the department, it is imperative for strict adherence to the protocols formulated to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.