“SKILLS for Success, 115th Years Journey of Technical Excellence and Workforce Development.” This is the theme under which the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) officially launched its anniversary celebrations at the Ministry of Labour on Friday last.

The launch ceremony signaled more than a historic milestone for BIT. It marked a renewed commitment to empowering every Guyanese with the tools necessary to shape their own future.

According to BIT, Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton passionately reflected on its far-reaching impact, describing the anniversary as not just a celebration of time but one of transformation.

“This is a celebration of action and achievement,” the minister declared adding, “In just four years, we have trained 12,742 individuals across the country, and remarkably, 60 per cent of them are women. Women who once questioned their place in technical fields are now standing tall, welding, wiring, building, and proving that their potential knows no bounds.”

Minister Hamilton emphasised that BIT’s success is not only measured in numbers but in the lives reshaped and the doors now open. With pride, he pointed to BIT’s newest chapter establishing its own training facilities.

He stated, “We are not only training; we are building. We are planting institutions in communities because the next chapter demands more. More access, more inclusion, more women breaking barriers and stepping boldly into spaces where they were once told they didn’t belong.”
Meanwhile, BIT’s Chief Executive Officer, (CEO) Richard Maughn spoke about the transformation and inclusiveness of BIT’s programmes.

“In 2020, under policy direction from the Honourable Minister, BIT expanded its scope from youth-focused training to include all Guyanese enabling skilling, re-skilling, and upskilling for every citizen,” he pointed out before explaining that “This 115-year milestone is a testament to the resilience, relevance, and reform of BIT over the decades.”

Additionally, a board member, Ganesh Singh lauded BIT’s inclusive approach, particularly its partnership with the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD).

Singh noted, “Since 2020, over 450 persons with disabilities have been trained in various skill areas. Many have gone on to find employment, become entrepreneurs, or pursue further education thanks to the flexible and impactful nature of BIT’s programmes.”

BIT mentioned that as part of the anniversary celebrations, it will host a nationwide “Try a Trade” exhibition series, offering the general public hands-on experiences with the skills taught through its training programmes.

The “Try a Trade” exhibition schedule is as follows: April 20, 2025 – Region Seven, Bartica Regatta; April 25, 2025 – Region Two, Anna Regina Car Park; April 28, 2025 – Region 10, Linden Bus Park; May 9, 2025 – Region Six, New Amsterdam Market; May 10, 2025– Region Six, Corriverton Market; and May 12, 2025 – Region One, Kumaka Waterfront.

The Board related that to commemorate its 115th anniversary and preserve its rich legacy, it will roll out a series of impactful initiatives throughout the year. These include the creation of a national archive to house audiovisual and photographic records that capture BIT’s historic journey, along with an inspiring alumni spotlight series showcasing the success stories of graduates who have become entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders.

Moreover, a national poetry competition open to both children and adults will celebrate the role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in driving personal growth and national development.

Present at the anniversary launch were members of the BIT staff, government officials, representatives from partner agencies, and other key stakeholders who have supported the institution’s journey over the years.

It was stated that their presence underscored the collective commitment to advancing technical and vocational education in Guyana and celebrated the collaborative efforts that have contributed to BIT’s continued success.