IN a significant stride towards workforce development, more than 1,277 individuals have benefitted from training programmes facilitated by the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) over the past four years. This announcement was made by Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, during his outreach to the Pomeroon-Supenaam region earlier this week.

Minister Hamilton highlighted that 106 vocational projects have been initiated in Region Two, representing a total investment of $101,471,530. The ongoing training programmes in the region are currently benefitting 96 males and 117 females.
During his two-day visit, the Minister underscored the importance of skills training as he toured several BIT-facilitated programmes in communities including St. Monica, Jacklow, Charity, and Westbury. These programmes cover a wide range of disciplines such as Joinery, Introduction to Photovoltaic Installation and Maintenance, Welding and Fabrication, Commercial Food Preparation, Mechanics, and Cosmetology.
Particularly notable was Minister Hamilton’s engagement with participants of the Cosmetology course, a programme conducted in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady and BIT. He encouraged participants to continuously upgrade their skills, reassuring them of the Ministry’s unwavering support through BIT.

Minister Hamilton emphasised the ongoing economic surge in Guyana, characterised by rapid development across various industries. He stressed that BIT’s initiatives are strategically designed to equip local talent with the essential skills and knowledge required to meet the growing demands of these industries.

“The government is deeply committed to enhancing employability among citizens, with BIT playing a crucial role not just in job placement, but also in cultivating disciplined and skilled workers,” said Minister Hamilton.
As Guyana prioritises skills development amidst its economic expansion, BIT’s latest training efforts reflect the government’s proactive approach to ensuring that citizens are equipped with the competencies necessary for sustainable growth and prosperity.
Lana Persaud, a participant in the programme, expressed her gratitude, stating, “We are thankful for these opportunities. It is something that is needed, and we are so thankful for this.”
The government plans to extend these skills training opportunities to more communities, ensuring that a greater number of citizens can benefit from BIT’s programmes.