A total of 60 residents who hail from several communities across Region Three (Essequibo Islands- West Demerara) on Wednesday received certificates after completing several technical programmes offered by the Board of Industrial Training (BIT).
Family- Daniel, Jermaine and Desha Lewis standing alongside BIT’s CEO, Richard Maughn
These graduates have earned certification in a range of fields, including general building construction, welding and fabrication, electrical installation, information technology, motor vehicle servicing, air conditioning repair, and refrigeration.
This achievement highlights BIT’s commitment to enhancing employability and technical skills that are crucial for success in today’s competitive job market.
Among the graduates were three members of the Lewis Family: father Jermaine Lewis, son Daniel Lewis, and daughter Desha Lewis, who, through the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), have all been certified in welding and fabrication. The rigorous four-month BIT programme has transformed their existing business by enhancing their skills, and they can now deliver superlative services across the region.
According to the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) the father Jermaine Lewis highlighted that, due to the robust training, he is now able to improve the standard of his business.
He said, “Before joining the programme, our work could be considered ‘street-style’ welding. The training taught us advanced techniques and styles that have significantly improved our business. I am grateful for this opportunity, and it is even more special to share this achievement with my children, who will continue and expand our family business.”
Daniel and Desha have echoed their father’s sentiments by expressing their appreciation for the skills gained and stating how much they had enjoyed participating in the programme. Their newfound expertise has greatly refined their abilities and contributed to their business success.
Notably, 20 graduates have already secured job positions with reputable companies, or have launched their own businesses, showcasing the immediate impact of BIT’s training on their careers. This success underscores BIT’s dedication to empowering Guyanese citizens with the skills necessary for socio-economic advancement in both the region and the country.
The graduation ceremony, held at Riverside Hall in Bagotville, West Bank Demerara, marked a pivotal moment in the graduates’ journey toward personal and professional growth. In attendance was Chief Executive Officer of BIT, Richard Maughn; Technical Officer Devika Ramsewak; Chairman of Lust-en-Rust Community Development Council (CDC), Mitchroy Garnett; and other officials, all of whom offered words of encouragement and congratulation.
Government has, since 2020, invested a total of $1.2 billion in various training programmes being administered by the Board of Industrial Training (BIT); and since August 2020, over 12,500 persons countrywide have been trained in different fields as a result of direct investments being made by the Government.
The Board of Industrial Training is responsible for promoting and facilitating technical and vocational education and training. Its primary goal is to enhance the skills of the workforce to meet the demands of various industries.
