More high-level programmes being offered at LTI amid economic development – Principal

…says curriculum has doubled over time

Linden’s premier tertiary institution, the Linden Technical Institute (LTI) through government’s investments has seen significant growth over the years. Recognising the current development of the country the institute has aligned itself to meet the growing needs of the population.
Speaking with Guyana Times on Tuesday was Principal of the Linden Technical Institute (LTI), Hector Anthony, who explained that the school’s curriculum now offers a wider range of advanced programmes to approximately 500 persons who are currently enrolled at the institution.
“Currently we are doing more high-level programmes, we are doing both Caribbean Vocational Qualification or CVQ programmes. We’re also doing the GTE programmes at different levels,” he stated.
Moreover, the school’s principal explained that the implementation of several new programmes has significantly boosted the teaching capabilities of the institution.
“If you look back from about 2010 to now, we have actually have double the amount of programmes compared to what was being offered back then. But in a summary, we are offering approximately about twenty-two (22) programmes” he stated.
Currently talks are underway to further bolster the institute’s curriculum by adding several other programmes such as solar installation among others.
Additionally, the principal revealed that the school’s dormitory which has been under construction for several years now will soon be completed. He noted that major construction works on the structure have already been completed with only a few small touches to be added.
“As it relates to the dormitory, I would say it’s completed. It just has to be handed over, now you have to furnish it with beds etc. Also we have to get staff, but more or less the dormitory may come on board sometime in the new year” he explained.
Construction of the complex, a multi-million-dollar capital project under the Ministry of Education, had commenced in September 2018 with the contract being awarded to Compustruct Engineering Inc. Currently major construction works are completed while minor works such as electricity and plumbing are currently being executed. The complex will consist of four dormitories, a study hall and an administrative building when completed, the dormitory will cater to 150 students.

Meanwhile, in an effort to enhance education delivery in Region 10, expansion works have commenced on the main building at LTI.

Sod turned
On Monday, the Education Minister, Priya Manickchand turned the sod for works to begin. In a brief comment, Manickchand said that “this critical expansion initiative, valued at $43,322,000, represents a significant investment in the future of technical and vocational education in Linden and its surrounding areas.” The Minister emphasised the significance of this project, stating, “The expansion of Linden Technical Institute is a testament to our government’s commitment to providing quality education and training opportunities for our youth. This project will not only benefit the students of today but will also contribute to the long-term economic development of Linden and the surrounding areas.”
The project, is being executed by Phoenix Engineering Enterprise. With a projected duration of six months, the expansion will enhance the institute’s capacity to serve 250 students, providing them with improved facilities and access to cutting-edge training in various technical fields.
The mobilisation amount for the project stands at G$12,996,600, ensuring that construction progresses on schedule and that the necessary resources are in place for the timely completion of the extension.
The expansion project is expected to have a profound impact on the local community, with the institute now able to accommodate more students from the catchment areas of Linden and beyond. The improved infrastructure will also support the introduction of new technical courses, equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in the modern workforce.
As a means of gaining both employment and experience simultaneously, five students from the institute will be working on the project and will be paid a stipend.