17th batch of students commence

To be better than who I am, to work harder, to use my time and energy meaningfully, to play sensibly, to always believe I can, to always comply with my instructions, and to have success only through courage, hard work, order and discipline.” Those were the words recited by 240 new students commencing their studies at the Kuru Kuru Training Centre (KKTC).

These students are drawn from all of the administrative regions and will be spending 10 months at the institution pursuing studies in technical and vocational skills and business studies.

“During the next 10 months or so, you will be exposed to 10 different subject areas, some of which will provide you with the skills that will make you marketable, and others that will teach life skills that will enable you to interact effectively with other persons and society at large,” Minister within the Education Ministry, Nicolette Henry told the students.

The minister emphasised the importance of exploiting all the facilities and resources available at the KKTC; in this regard they were advised to be disciplined in their studies. “Do not allow anyone or anything to distract you from your studies.” You must all work to develop your full potential. There are lots of things you can do and achieve at this training centre, but your achievement is to a large degree, defined by yourselves.”

The challenges of the course were not understated; however the students were advised to set a timetable for their studies and revision.

“You can start to shape your future here; take full advantage of the training you have been offered and remember that a lost opportunity cannot be regained,” Minister Henry admonished.

She expressed hope that the end result of the course will see young people being shaped into citizens who will help to change the communities from which they came for the better, and the country as a whole.

The Assisting Director of Youth (ADOY), Leslyn Boyce in her remarks highlighted the plans for the KKTC. “The Department of Youth plans on raising the standards of the institution to make it more current, efficient and effective while aligning it with TVET Standards,” she stated.

That thrust will be realised through the implementation of recommendations coming out from the KKTC Reviewing Curriculum Interim Report. The priority areas, in this regard, are the restructuring and strengthening of the management structure by recruiting technical and competent staff; training of instructors to deliver competency based education; registering the KKTC under the Council for Technical and Vocational Training; commence the process of competency based education training; purchasing tools/equipment that would match TVET standards; expand the workshop spaces and provide clear guidelines for management.