More than 400 students have graduated from the NESC Technical Institute, completing training across ten technical and vocational trades.
But even as they prepare to enter the workforce, the Institute, along with the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, is emphasising the growing demand for skilled workers and the value of technical education.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony for more than 400 students from the institute, NESC Technical Institute President Kern Dass noted that technical education continues to face the perception that it is a second choice, despite the essential role skilled workers play in keeping industries and essential services operating.
“You choose a path that doesn’t come with applause. Remember I told you? Thankless. You choose to learn how things actually work. The wiring behind the walls. The code behind the screen, the machines that keep the world running.”
He said the NESC Institute is working to change that perception by maintaining recognised industry standards.
“This institution, and the Chairman from ACTT, is here, is a fully accredited institution, but not only an accredited institution; all 11 programmes are programme-accredited. So we have credentials. You know what happened to us? We could talk, boy. We could talk big because we could show it.”
For the graduating class, the next challenge is to turn that training into opportunities in the workplace.
Valedictorian Leigh De Verteuil pointed to the demand for skilled technicians and the potential to advance through apprenticeships, further qualifications and business ownership.
“With looming AI automation and limited job security, we are entering a world where a technical blue-collar career looks better than ever. There’s a serious demand for skilled technicians to build the new era of industry and to keep the old one from falling apart.”
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs Penelope Bradshaw-Niles said the Ministry intends to develop additional programmes and is seeking input from young people as it prepares consultations for a youth policy.
“Our responsibility is not simply to encourage you to dream; it is to help create practical pathways towards employment, entrepreneurship, and personal development. More programmes are to be developed and launched. But as we look ahead, we want to hear from you. What skills do you want to learn? What industries interest you?”
As the graduates move from the classroom and workshop into the world of work, the challenge will be to turn their qualifications into lasting opportunities.