Guyana: Minister of Labour Hamilton visits Upper Corentyne Industrial Training Centre; attends sessions

Guyana: Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, between July 5 and 7, 2022, visited the Upper Corentyne Industrial Training Centre, the Humanitarian Mission Guyana and Guysuco Training Centre in Port Mourant and Plegt Anker Community Centre on the East Bank of Berbice to launch vocational and technical training offered by the Board of Industrial Training (BIT).

At the Upper Corentyne Industrial Training Centre, a total of eight programmes were offered to one hundred and thirty (130) persons; at Guysuco Training Centre, approximately 128 persons were given the opportunity to pursue one of six (6) programmes at the centre.

At Plegt Anker Community Centre, one programme was offered to eleven persons (11), with two launched at the Humanitarian Mission for approximately thirty-two (32) persons.

The majority of the courses that will be facilitated at the training facilities will be done in the evenings to ensure persons, young and old, who are employed receive the opportunity to attend classes and complete the programme.

During his visit, the minister also interacted extensively with trainers and trainees, informing them of the investment the ministry, through the bit, is making to ensure that every citizen receives a skill that, in return, will benefit their lives, families, and communities.

Minister Hamilton and his team will carry out a similar exercise in other regions soon.

Courses offered are Metal Work Engineering, Welding and Fabrication, Motor Vehicle Repairs, Heavy Duty Equipment Operation, General Building Construction, Information Technology, Electrical Installation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, Garment Construction, and Supervisory Management.

Additionally, the Ministry of Labour, Region Ten, Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) department facilitated a one-day workshop with the Region Ten, Regional Democratic Council (RDC).

Sixteen persons attended the workshop from various offices, such as education, agriculture, and health, under the RDC Administration. The group were divided into four and discussed topics such as Hazards, Accident Investigation, Joint Workplace Safety and Health Committee, How to Conduct Inspections, Risk Assessment and Safety Policy.

The proceeding was spearheaded by Senior OSH Maxine Bess and OSH Officer Timica Bayley.