BIT celebrates years of technical training : Greater focus on conflict resolution for trainees, moving forward – Labour Minister

The Board of Industrial Training (BIT) commemorated decades of service, having supported skills development over many years. Moving forward, BIT’s training centres will place greater emphasis on conflict resolution.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, a series of trade exhibitions will be held across several regions. Activities commence on April 20 in Region Seven, followed by Region Two on April 25. On April 28, BIT will host its exhibition at the Linden Bus Park in Region Ten. Events will continue in Regions Five and Six on May 9 at the New Amsterdam Market, and in Region One at Corriverton on May 10. The celebrations will culminate with an award ceremony on May 28 in Region Four.
Delivering remarks during Friday’s anniversary event, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton stressed that BIT will be placing renewed focus on conflict resolution as a key aspect of its future programming.

“For the trainers who are here, we have to build on what we’ve achieved over the years. Therefore, in my view, we have to move our training programmes to a place where we apply innovation and creativity. People must be trained not just in technical skills, but persons must also be trained in how to resolve problems,” he stated.
He went on to add that the purpose of the industrial training sites is not only to provide skills for employment but also to promote understanding of conflict resolution.
“It’s not just about training to get a job—it’s about learning how to solve problems, how to do something better within a given skill set,” he added.
Since 2021, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has been conducting conflict resolution sessions as part of the Government’s “Train the Trainers” programme.
This initiative, tailored for representatives of the Support and Heal Network (SHN) and Ministry staff, aims to provide support and counselling to vulnerable groups and communities across Guyana.

In 2024, schools across Guyana also joined the effort. The Legal Affairs Ministry, in collaboration with the Education Ministry, launched a nationwide initiative to implement restorative justice practices within the education system. Organised by the Restorative Justice Centre (RJC), this training is aimed at reshaping how schools manage conflict and discipline—by promoting dialogue and accountability over punishment.
Meanwhile the Minister mentioned that years that have gone by must not merely serve as a point of reflection but as a foundation for continued innovation and growth.
“These years are an active number. We have a lot of people who celebrate passive numbers—when they add it up, you can’t point to anything. They’re just there. But it’s not about the number; it’s about what you do with it. That’s what we are celebrating.”
He further expressed that the BIT has left its mark across the length and breadth of Guyana.
“Whether it’s the top of Paramakatoi or the deep south of Rupununi—and I can go on and on—every place in this Cooperative Republic of Guyana has felt the print and stamp of the Board of Industrial Training. This is not a wishy-washy celebration. It’s a celebration of action and success. Over the past four years, we have trained 12,742 persons across this country. Sixty per cent of them were women. We have been able to impact and change women’s lives.”
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BIT, Richard Maughn, emphasised the importance of recognising students and instructors who remained committed—particularly during challenging periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We reflect on those who did not pause during COVID, ensuring that persons continued to receive skills training in areas such as heavy-duty equipment operation. Some individuals gave their lives to ensure that BIT remained relevant. From 2010 to now, BIT has been headed by several administrations, and these individuals have each contributed meaningfully over the years.”
He also acknowledged the resilience of those who sought out training programmes despite personal challenges.
“We often don’t mention the individuals who were told they couldn’t learn—many of them come to us with that mindset. But once they enter the TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) programme, they realise they can learn, they can use their hands, and that it’s not about the past—it’s about the journey forward.”