Students of the Ministry of Education and Culture and H. Lavity Stoutt Community College’s Technical/Vocational Education and Training Apprenticeship Programme (TVET) are now equipped with tools to enter the workforce following their participation in  a one-day preparation retreat.

The retreat, held under the theme “The Best is Yet to Come,” was held on May 18 at the Lambert Beach Resort and was designed to provide an opportunity for students to gain relevant exposure, knowledge and skills necessary to attain a job upon graduation.

Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education and Culture, Dr. Marcia Potter, expressed the importance of technical and vocational training. Dr. Potter said, “We at the Ministry (of Education and Culture) are extremely proud to be partnering with the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College on this venture as we see it as a very good opportunity to provide our young people with the needed skills to take their place in society.”

Acting President for the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, Dr. Bryan Penn stated, “As small as we are, as limited as our resources might be, we still have to make sure that we do an excellent job in preparing our youngsters for the world of work and the challenges that lie ahead.”

The programme facilitators were Deputy Human Resources Manager for the Government of the Virgin Islands, Ms. Kaisa Penn, Coordinator for Youth Employment Services, Mr. Albert Wheatley and motivational speaker, Mr. Kenneth Hodge.

Dean of Workforce Training for HLSCC, Mrs. Bernadine Louise encouraged the students to continue to be enthusiastic about the technical vocational studies programme. She also reminded the group that it is an important component of economic development as it provides the skills that are needed in societies.

The topics discussed included dress code, work ethics, resumé preparation, interview etiquette, along with personal and professional growth. Students also participated in a group interview training activity which allowed them to apply the skills they acquired.

The TVET Apprenticeship Programme offers entry level professional training in air conditioning and refrigeration, house-wiring, small engine repair, culinary and restaurant skills, general office skills, computer application and woodwork to persons between the ages of 18 and 30.

For more information, interested persons should contact the Ministry of Education and Culture at telephone number 468-3701 ext 2151 or 2036.