September 13, 2024Port of Spain, September 13, 2024: 114 young persons graduated today, fromthe Industrial Apprenticeship Programme (IAP) under the Ministry of Youth Development and National Service (MYDNS). The Graduation Ceremony, which was held at the Government Campus Plaza, Port of Spain, saw the first cohorts of 80 young people from the Drilling Rig Operations Programme (DROP), along with 34 others from the Crane Operation Programme (HOIST), awarded Certificates for successful completion of their respective Programmes.
DROP and HOIST are two of the eight Programmes under the Industrial Apprenticeship Programme (IAP) that offer education and training to young persons and focus on the relevant and practical skills necessary for specific industries.
The Youth Development and National Service Minister, the Honourable Foster Cummings, outlined during his feature address, the efforts of the MYDNS in addressing crime. Minister Cummings stated, “The MYDNS is reaching out to our young people, who are the future of this country and offering them an opportunity to upskill and prepare themselves for the workplace, access high paying jobs and the opportunity to get involved in business”.
In addition, Minister Cummings highlighted that “MYDNS currently offers a suite of over 30 youth development programmes, with the implementation of new programmes on the horizon which young citizens can look forward to, that will offer training and upskilling opportunities across various employment sectors.”
Managing director at Tower Crane Services Limited, Mr. Roland Baboolal, highlighted that “One of the most pressing challenges we face today is the shortage of skilled equipment operators. Mr Baboolal also commended the MYDNS for funding the students of HOIST and DROP, and informed the graduands that, “The skills you’ve acquired and the knowledge you’ve gained position you to fill this gap and drive innovation in these industries” while delivering remarks at the event.”
Tower Crane Services Limited delivered the HOIST curriculum offering training in Forklift and Boom Truck Operations over a three-month period, as well as Rigging and Banksmen Training over a one-week period. They are also implementing the seven-month training that encompasses Forklift, Boom Truck, Mobile Crane and Tower Crane Operations.
Dean at the School of Continuing Education, NESC Technical Institute – Mr. Kofi Toney, who also spoke at the event, commended the MYDNS for initiating these programmes and went on to exclaim, “MYDNS, you have changed the game when it comes to opportunities. No one say in Trinidad and Tobago at this time, that there are no opportunities for young persons”.
The Ministry of Youth Development and National Service remains committed to bringing all stakeholders together to promote youth development and encourages civic-minded citizens to contribute to National Service across Trinidad and Tobago.
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