The Ministry of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, through the The National Training Agency (NTA) and YTEPP proudly participated in the launch of the Digitalization of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Delivery Trilateral Cooperation Project — an initiative aimed at transforming TVET across the Caribbean through digital innovation, workforce development, and strategic international partnerships. The launch was attended by Senator Professor Emeritus the Honourable Prakash Persad, Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, Mr. Hansen Narinesingh (MP) Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, Dr. Denise Stoney -James, Deputy Programme Manager, Education CARICOM Secretariat, Mr. Joao Paulo Freitas, Technical Advisor and Project Coordinator, Trilateral Projects, German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and the executive of YTEPP and NTA.

Delivering the feature address, Minister Persad, emphasised that:

“Today’s launch is not simply about technology. It is about people. It is about opportunity. And most importantly, it is about national development through the strengthening of our human capital.”

The Minister further highlighted the Government’s commitment to ensuring that citizens — particularly young people, women, and vulnerable communities — are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing digital economy.

The initiative will support:

Digital learning platforms

Apprenticeships and entrepreneurship pathways

Micro-credential certification

Stronger industry partnerships

Greater access to training opportunities across the region

Minister Persad also underscored the importance of inclusion, noting that sustainable national development depends on ensuring that no citizen is left behind.

“By investing in TVET, we are investing in national productivity, social stability, innovation, and economic resilience.”

This landmark initiative brings together regional and international partners including the CARICOM Secretariat, CANTA, the Brazilian Cooperation Agency (ABC), SENAI, the European Union, and GIZ, all working collectively to modernise workforce development systems across the Caribbean.

Following the launch, Minister Persad toured the YTEPP training facilities, engaging with instructors and trainees while viewing several hands-on learning environments.

The tour included visits to the Culinary Arts and Cosmetology sections, where the Minister observed students actively developing industry-ready skills aligned with workforce and entrepreneurship opportunities.

The visit reinforced Government’s commitment to strengthening practical skills training and creating modern pathways to sustainable employment and economic empowerment.