Port of Spain, April 11, 2025: Minister of Public Utilities, the Honourable Colm Imbert, today praised the 35 young graduates of Cohort I of the FUSE Introductory Linesman/Line Clearer Training Programme, at a Graduation Ceremony held at Government Campus Plaza Auditorium.
The FUSE Introductory Linesman/Line Clearer Training Programme, provided this first cohort of youth, between the ages of 18 and 35 years, with specialized training in critical aspects of electrical overhead line construction and maintenance, as well as equipped them with the relevant skills to conduct lines-clearing and vegetation management, in an efficient manner and in accordance with safety regulations. The skills they developed through the MYDNS FUSE programme, will foster their employability in any field involving overhead lines, and landscaping and tree trimming in a non-energized environment.
“This FUSE Programme is not just a training initiative, it is a practical investment in our young people and the future of the Electricity Sector. Training programmes like this create pathways for continuing development”, stated the Honourable Colm Imbert, Minister of Public Utilities, as he delivered the feature address at the Graduation Ceremony.
Minister Imbert added, “Fuse offers an entry into an industry that is vital to Trinidad and Tobago’s economy, and we at the Ministry of Public Utilities are happy to collaborate with the Ministry of Youth Development and National Service to deliver the skills to this first cohort, and we look forward to those to come in the other cohorts.”
General Manager at the Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC), Mr. Christalston Belle, who also spoke at the Graduation, congratulated the students for completing the Fuse Programme; making them capable of performing essential lineman and line-clearing tasks under supervision. He informed them that, “Your work will align with T&TEC general safety rules, policies, and standards, especially for those of you who will be employed by companies working on T&TEC infrastructures.”
Valedictorian Tama-Re Jackie thanked the Ministry of Youth Development and National Service for providing the opportunity to gain a skill that gives a chance to a better future. Jackie stated that while the changes to adapt to the tougher version of herself were challenging, she and her colleagues supported each other, creating a strong bond and sticking to the Programme to the end. Addressing ‘self-development’, Tama-Re advised young people to “Get comfortable being the first person to pour into yourself.”
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 the National Service of Trinidad and Tobago.
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