Dr Terrance Drew advocates CRIWT initiative: A step towards sustainability

Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis: The Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College collaborated with Green Solutions International SKN Incorporated and the GEF Small Grants Programme for launching the Caribbean Center of Excellence in Research, Innovation and Workforce Training (CRIWT). This initiative is a little step closer towards attaining the nation’s vision of becoming a sustainable island state.

The CRIWT Project was launched on 9th April 2024 at the CFBC Poinciana Conference Room. This project focuses on promoting renewable energy which will generate several benefits for the nation and the entire Caribbean community.

The ceremony was attended by several officials which includes, including Andrew Abraham, the CFBC President, Dr Geoffrey Hanley, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education and Dr Terrance Drew, the Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis.

PM Terrance Drew shared glimpses of the ceremony on his Facebook account and said “It is with great pleasure and excitement that I launched and celebrated the Caribbean Center of Excellence in Research, Innovation, and Workforce Training.”

While shedding light on the project, PM Drew stated that the establishment of CRIWT marks a crucial milestone in the entire Caribbean region as it has addressed a critical gap where photovoltaic (PV) installation and electric vehicle training and services are limited. This effort will not only promote economic growth, and protect the environment but will enhance the overall quality of life as a whole. 

He added that the project has benefitted beyond the borders of St Kitts and Nevis and has become a regional hub for training in solar PV and EV maintenance and repairs which has contributed to the resilience and prosperity of the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis and the wider Caribbean community. 

PM Terrance Drew also noted the benefits that the younger generation will yield with this project. He asserted that renewable energy and sustainability are paramount and the skills acquired through this project will mark the success of the youth in the 21st century job market. 

He also added that it will create several excellent opportunities which will play a crucial role in helping the administration align with their nation’s agenda of becoming a sustainable island state.