Hon. Fahie Promises to move HLSCC Vocational programme forward

Orientation- Participants, instructors and coordinators of the Technical/Vocational Programme at the orientation session held on October 2 at the college’s Marine Centre.  GIS Photo by Doron Hodge.

Honourable Fahie addressed the 33 new students at an orientation session held today at the college’s marine centre.  “We are going to mushroom this programme and we are going to move it from some of the public’s view of shame to fame; and you will forever be grateful and proud that you were part of this programme when we are finished with it,” he said.

The Minister also told the students that they can be somebody if they put their minds to it.  “You are not a failure and you are not in this programme because you are a failure,” Honourable Fahie told the gathering adding, “Your character does not come out when you are up but when you are down and by showing that you want to get back up.”

He urged the students to do things right and to have the right attitude.  “The only limitation you have in this programme is yourself.  If you limit yourself, you do not have far to go because you have to see the bigger picture,” he added.

Vice President of HLSCC Dr. Karl Dawson told the students that he needs from them a firm commitment.  “You are here because someone has committed to providing this programme to serve you,” Dr. Dawson said. 
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He added, “This means somebody has made this commitment because they felt that people are in need and the only response that you can give in return is your own commitment.”

He told the participants that all the people involved in the programme want to see them achieve the best.  “As far as this programme is concerned, we are trying to give you some skills and make you ready for the world of work so that you can continue to build yourselves in life,” he said.

The programme, which offered plumbing, electrical wiring/house wiring, woodworking, small engine repairs, hotel/restaurant/basic culinary skills and computers/office operational skills has opened one additional area: air conditioning/refrigeration.  Classes are scheduled to commence on Monday, October 6.

The technical and vocational programme offers skills training to persons between 18 and 30 years old, who are not currently employed, and who aspire to have stable and productive careers.  The programme, which was created through a partnership between the Ministry of Education and Culture and the college, has graduated a total of 46 students since its inception in 2006.

The mission of the Ministry of Education and Culture is to provide high quality education and rehabilitative services, as well as, to facilitate access to and participation in sports, recreation and culture, in order to enrich the lives of all residents of the Virgin Islands.