196 graduate from BIT training programmes in Region 2

The Board of Industrial Training (BIT), in collaboration with the Labour Ministry, has celebrated the success of 196 trainees who have completed various technical and vocational training programs in Region Two (Pomeroon–Supenaam).
In the Pomeroon, 50 trainees, comprising 26 males and 24 females, have received training in photovoltaic installation, joinery, motor vehicle servicing, welding, and commercial food preparation.
Trainees actively contributed to community development by creating items such as grills, furniture, and dining tables during their practical sessions.
Additionally, in communities between Bethany and Walton Hall, 146 individuals (81 males and 65 females) have graduated from programmes that included cosmetology, small engine repairs, refrigeration and air conditioning, welding, and tractor driving. Those programmes were made possible through the Office of the First Lady.
Delivering the feature address at the Essequibo Technical Institute’s (ETI) Auditorium, First Lady Arya Ali highlighted the transformative potential of skills training in a rapidly evolving economy, and underscored the importance of technical competencies over traditional academic qualifications in meeting the demands of modern industries.

“Skills matter more than degrees. In today’s global economy, practical abilities such as machinery operation, welding and food preparation are increasingly crucial for growth. By focusing on creating skilled labour pools, we ensure not only economic resilience, but also that upward mobility is within reach for every Guyanese,” the First Lady has said.
Further, the First Lady has encouraged graduates to seize the myriad opportunities provided by Government, including free training programmes. Reminding that success depends not only on current knowledge, but on commitment to lifelong learning, the First Lady has urged the graduates to stay curious, continue upskilling themselves, and leverage the resources available to them.
“Whether through online platforms, workshops, or certifications, there are countless opportunities to develop further,” she encouraged.
The First Lady also called on graduates to become ambassadors for technical training by inspiring others to embrace similar opportunities, thus contributing to the nation’s development.
Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton has lauded the achievements of the BIT programme, which has trained over 12,800 individuals in the past four years. In Region Two, 1,260 residents have gained marketable skills.
He has also highlighted Government’s investment of $1.2 billion in training programmes nationwide, including in previously underserved hinterland communities.
“Today we see the fruits of our efforts, as young men and women now have the skills to build better futures. This programme is not just about training, it’s about empowerment,” the minister has said.
Hamilton has stressed the importance of discipline and professionalism in the workforce, and has urged graduates to uphold high standards in their respective trades. He told the graduates that as electricians, mechanics, welders, or whatever trade they are doing, their word and commitment matter. He urged them to meet deadlines, and maintain reliability in order to build trust and reputation
Delivering the charge to the graduates, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Secretary of the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), Richard Maughn, inspired the graduates with a message centred on growth and purpose, as he urged them to embrace a mindset of continuous improvement and self-discovery.
“I charge you to choose growth: to develop your purpose, refine your skills, and adapt to new challenges. Choose growth, and register since registration is open. Choose purpose: choose to discover your purpose and choose to improve your purpose… Choose to have a growth mindset, and with those words, I charge you,” Maughn declared.
He emphasized that the journey begins now, and he encouraged the graduates to approach the future with boldness, gratitude, and a commitment to excellence.
Also attending the graduation ceremony was Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva, who chaired the ceremony; Regional Executive Officer Susan Saywack, representatives from the Labour Ministry, a representative from the Region Two RDC, and lecturers for the various courses, among other persons.