67 CSHE students certified across 5 skill-building programmes in food, decor, beauty

The Carnegie School of Home Economics (CSHE) marked another milestone in vocational excellence last Thursday as it hosted its 2025 Graduation Ceremony at CSHE at the National Cultural Centre, under the theme: “Shaping generations with creativity and skills – 93 years of transformation in education and training.”
A cohort of 67 students earned certification across five accredited, skill-building programmes designed to strengthen Guyana’s emerging workforce. The graduating class completed training in practical and high-demand disciplines, including commercial food preparation, garment making, cosmetology, interior decoration, and catering and hospitality – fields spanning the food, decor, and beauty sectors.
This year’s results reflected a notable rise in pass rates, supported by expanded industry collaborations and the school’s continued application of competency-based education and training aligned with CANTA occupational benchmarks. Student internships were facilitated through well-regarded hospitality, garment-production and cosmetology establishments, several of which have already translated into formal job placements for new graduates, signalling a strong transition from training to employment.
The ceremony also highlighted the national drive to broaden equitable access to technical and vocational learning in support of the Government of Guyana’s vision for a rapidly expanding and more diversified economy. Officials reaffirmed that continued investment into vocational education remains a priority pathway for strengthening sustainable careers, fostering local talent, and accelerating national development.
Principal Dr Sharmaine Marshall delivered passionate remarks championing student resilience and adaptability, qualities she said will serve graduates as they step into new opportunity arenas. She extended appreciation to the Ministry of Education – Guyana, partner companies, families, teaching staff and school personnel for their continued contribution to student success and programme longevity.
“In today’s world these skills are incredibly important. I was listening to Dr Carpen the other day, and he spoke about us developing nationally as per capita but regressing in terms of health because there is a direct correlation: the more money you acquire, suddenly home-cooked food is not appealing… As graduates, you are not simply receiving a certificate or diploma; you are equipped with a skill that will enable you to contribute meaningfully in society,” the principal said.
Marshall noted that as the school approaches nearly a century of influence in national skills formation, the 2025 cohort stands as a testament to the ongoing transformation of ordinary learners into certified professionals equipped for growing industries, future innovation, and meaningful participation in Guyana’s development story.
“Whether you choose to work in catering, hospitality, or interior design, household management, or your own enterprise, your training has given you the tools. More importantly, you have demonstrated commitment, discipline and perseverance to get to walk the stage today, and those are qualities that will serve you well,” she added.
The Carnegie School of Home Economics (CSHE) has been at the forefront of vocational and technical education in Guyana for over 90 years, shaping generations of skilled professionals. Established to provide practical training in areas that support both personal development and the national workforce, the school offers programmes in commercial food preparation, garment making, cosmetology, interior decoration, and catering and hospitality. With a focus on hands-on learning, creativity, and industry-relevant skills, CSHE equips its students to succeed in diverse careers, contribute to their communities, and meet the evolving demands of the modern workplace. Over the decades, the institution has built a strong reputation for excellence, producing graduates who are both confident and capable in their chosen fields.