Georgetown: One-hundred-and-eight (108) persons with disabilities are now knowledgeable in the areas of craft, cosmetology, computer repairs, mechanical engineering, woodworking, sewing and computer skills.
Through its commitment to improving lives of the nation’s youth, the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), on recently graduated students from the David Rose Special School who completed a BIT one-week skills training programme.
The ceremony was held at the school, with parents and well-wishers also in attendance.
BIT Chairman, Clinton Williams assured that the agency would continue to ensure that everyone gets the opportunity to learn a skill to better their lives and provide for the families. “This programme was launched to address the dire shortage of entry-level technical skills for both the public and private sectors. I want to say our programmes are apolitical and even though the programmes were launched by the previous administration, they continue to be embraced and expanded by the present administration.”
The training programme, which targets all ten administrative regions, includes input from the public and private sector. According to Williams, BIT will seek all avenues to better improve the lives of persons with disabilities. He urged the graduates to take a stand and be counted in society.
“You must rightfully take your place in the workforce. There should not be anything stopping you from excelling,” Williams said. “We work to provide the training that best suits you and that will get you employed or even help you to start your own business.”
The Government of Guyana remains committed to ensuring that every Guyanese is provided with the opportunity to improve their lot. Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams took the opportunity to remind persons in attendance at the graduation ceremony.
“Persons with disabilities will soon be in comfort when using the Supernaam waterfront in Region 2, with the installation of a ramp specifically designed for them. Also, they will be able to purchase their own vehicles free of excise tax.”
She disclosed that at the end of 2019, a special Montessori classroom would be constructed at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE).
In 2016, the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) began offering training to students from the David Rose Special School. To date, 400 students have benefited from this training. The programme is being offered to persons with disabilities in all regions, except Region 7. However, efforts are being made to ensure this region can also benefit.
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