In a significant move toward advancing technical and vocational education in Guyana, the Ministry of Education recently hosted a pre-meeting with key stakeholders for the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ), under the auspices of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC). The meeting, led by Deputy Chief Education Officer for Technical Education (DCEO-Tech) Dr. Ritesh Tularam, Director of the National Accreditation Council Dr. Marcel Hutson, and CVQ Auditor Linda Stewart Duncan, brought together educational leaders, vocational training professionals, and industry partners to discuss the future of vocational qualifications and the broader impact it will have on students and the economy.
The CVQ is a regional certification that equips learners with the practical skills needed to excel in various technical and vocational fields. As Guyana continues to expand its economy through sectors like oil and gas, agriculture, construction, and ICT, the importance of producing a workforce with recognized qualifications and technical expertise cannot be understated. The CVQ initiative aims to align students’ skills with industry demands, enhancing the employability of graduates and contributing to national development.
The primary aim of the stakeholder pre-meeting was to outline the current state of CVQ integration within Guyana’s education system, identify key areas for improvement, and discuss the role that each stakeholder must play in ensuring the successful implementation of CVQs across schools and training institutions. The meeting also provided a platform for the Ministry of Education and stakeholders to deliberate on ways to streamline certification processes, standardize training programs, and ensure that the qualifications are recognized both locally and internationally.
The CVQ system is part of a broader effort by CXC to encourage countries in the Caribbean to prioritize technical education and provide students with an alternate pathway to academic qualifications. By obtaining a CVQ, students not only demonstrate competency in a specific vocational area but also gain certification that is recognized throughout CARICOM member states.
The stakeholder pre-meeting on CVQ represents another major step forward for technical and vocational education in Guyana. By building strong partnerships between the Ministry of Education, CXC, and the private sector, Guyana is positioning itself to produce a workforce that is both highly skilled and internationally certified. As the country continues to experience unprecedented economic growth, the integration of CVQ programs will provide a vital boost to the nation’s development, while empowering students with the skills they need to succeed.
