The Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI) and the Government Industrial School (GIS) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU).
This formal partnership will allow wards transitioning out of the GIS to matriculate into full-time programmes at the SJPI, following their release.
During the signing ceremony on Wednesday, March 8, at Wildey, St. Michael, Principal of the SJPI, Ian Drakes, expressed his excitement about signing the MOU. Explaining that it was the result of discussions, started a few years ago under the past principal of the GIS, he said the agreement was part of the institution’s efforts to expand its reach in the community.
“The effort will provide the education and skills training necessary for those young people who have run afoul of the law to enter the world of work with skills, and meaningfully contribute to their families and the country when they reintegrate into society,” Mr. Drakes said.
He further stated: “When these young people graduate from the SJPI, they will have the necessary skills to not only seek employment but to become entrepreneurs, to earn a decent living and contribute to the growth and success of the economy of Barbados.”
Under the newly-minted agreement, both entities agree to explore opportunities for collaboration in areas of mutual interest, namely the annual provision of technical and vocational education and training for discharged residents of the GIS into established programmes at the SJPI.
Principal of the GIS, Seilest Bradshaw, expressed her organisation’s gratitude for the opportunity.
She said: “On behalf of the administrators, the staff and the residents of the GIS, we would like to thank you for this opportunity which you are extending to our residents. I know we had a long relationship with the SJPI even before now, but what we’ve done this morning has concretised what was started and made it formal.
“The signing has paved the path for more of our residents who need a second chance. I am happy that you have seen that the Government Industrial School deserves such a chance. We look forward to a long-lasting relationship with the SJPI and hope that many GIS students will reap the benefits of this collaboration.”
Upon successful completion of the programme, the students will be awarded SJPI certificates, CVQ/NVQ certification, or both. Candidates will also be able to apply for all programmes offered by the SJPI.
The SJPI offers certificate and diploma qualifications in over 50 technical and vocational programmes across seven divisions, including, but not limited to, agriculture; building; home economics, and beauty therapy.