THE Board of Industrial Training (BIT), through the Ministry of Labour, has officially commissioned its new $44.8M Skills Development and Certification Centre in New Amsterdam, Berbice, marking a significant step toward enhancing skills training and certification across Guyana.

The inauguration, held on February 11, 2025, reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to decentralise training opportunities and promote regional development.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including government officials, regional leaders, and BIT executives. Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton emphasised the transformative impact of the government’s training initiatives.

“I can see evidence of what we are doing, especially with the establishment of this facility. I can see that residents here, including retired individuals, are benefitting from the programmes we have and will continue to implement in the region,” Minister Hamilton stated.

He noted that in Region Six alone, 2,571 individuals have been trained over the past four years through 109 training programmes, with an investment of $185 million. These programmes have benefitted 1,410 males and 1,230 females, highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusivity and equal access to opportunities.
BIT’s Chief Executive Officer, Richard Maughn, outlined the organisation’s progress, emphasising that BIT’s training programmes are now locally and internationally accredited, ensuring that trainees have better access to job opportunities and further education.

Meanwhile, Regional Chairman and BIT Chairman, David Armogan, along with New Amsterdam Mayor, Wainwright McIntosh, expressed gratitude for the establishment of the state-of-the-art training facility in Berbice, underscoring its importance in fostering workforce development.

The newly commissioned two-level facility, each spanning 2,000 square feet, was designed to meet Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQs) standards. It will play a crucial role in implementing training and certification programmes that align with Guyana’s evolving economic landscape.

As the country continues to experience rapid economic growth, initiatives such as these ensure that all citizens, regardless of location, have the opportunity to develop essential skills and actively participate in Guyana’s development.