GTC Manager hails record-breaking graduation as 83 complete skills training programme

The National Training Programme for Youth Empowerment (NTPYE) continues to transform lives, with 83 graduates successfully completing the latest programme at the GuySuCo Training Centre (GTC) in Port Mourant, Region Six.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony on Friday afternoon, GTC Manager Jainarine Sookpaul praised the graduates for their commitment and perseverance, describing the programme as another milestone in developing Guyana’s skilled workforce.

“This is a celebration of a massive achievement,” Sookpaul said, noting that the graduating class produced 51 distinctions and 27 credits, reflecting the high standard of training delivered through the partnership between the GuySuCo Training Centre and the Board of Industrial Training (BIT).

The six-month programme commenced on January 12, 2026, and concluded on June 26, 2026. It catered to working adults through evening classes held four days each week. Training was offered in Welding and Fabrication, Refrigeration, Electrical Installation, Motor Vehicle Servicing and Repairs, along with Supervisory Management.

Of the 120 applicants, 104 commenced the programme, while 83 successfully graduated.

Sookpaul commended the long-standing partnership between GTC and BIT, describing it as a model for developing technical talent and creating employment opportunities.

“The ultimate measure of any vocational programme isn’t just graduation day—it’s what happens the day after,” he said, adding that the presence of businesses at the graduation ceremony demonstrated employers’ confidence in the quality of graduates emerging from the institution.

One of the programme’s most significant achievements, according to the manager, was maintaining zero accidents throughout the training period despite students working with heavy equipment, electrical items, fabrication tools and vehicles.

He credited the accomplishment to the dedication of the institution’s 17 staff members, who, he said, not only taught technical skills but also instilled discipline, professionalism and a strong safety culture.

Reflecting on the Supervisory Management programme, Sookpaul said many participants initially doubted their ability to succeed but overcame those fears through hard work and determination, positioning themselves for career advancement and improved quality of life.

He also encouraged graduates to remain confident as they enter the workforce, sharing one of his favourite sayings: “A bird doesn’t trust the branch it sits on—it trusts its wings.” He reminded graduates that true strength comes from believing in their own abilities and continuing to develop their skills.

Sookpaul revealed that the latest graduates have now joined 1,401 persons who have successfully completed the NTPYE programme at the GuySuCo Training Centre since its inception in 2013.

He expressed gratitude to the Government of Guyana, the Ministry responsible for the programme, the Board of Industrial Training, GuySuCo, the staff of the training centre, graduates and their families for contributing to the success of the initiative.

“The GuySuCo Training Centre will continue to contribute to the growth and development of this wonderful country,” Sookpaul said.