EDUCATION Authorities have always recognised the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in our Education System in Saint Lucia.
As a Primary School student, I recall having to participate in the following subjects which were included on the school timetable: Agriculture, Art & Craft, Fine Arts, Home Economics (for girls), Music, Drama.
As a young classroom teacher, I followed vacation programmes which were organised by the education ministry. I did a few Fine Arts vacation workshops at the Castries Comprehensive Secondary School which was conducted by our very own, the late Hon. Dunstan St. Omer.
When I attended the then Saint Lucia Teachers’ College, I pursued Fine Arts, again with the late Hon. Dunstan St. Omer, Music with the late Joyce Auguste, and Agricultural Science. For Agricultural Science, the students had to go to the Union Agricultural Station on specific days.
Now let us investigate Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
Let us start with Technical Education and Training. Technical Education and Training cover knowledge and skills which will enable one to carry out basic mechanical, electrical and hydraulic tasks, using safe working procedures and tools. By hydraulic I mean a machine that operates through the force of liquid pressure.
It is important to understand that technical education and training are offered by institutions such as vocational schools, colleges and universities. Such training could lead to certificates, diplomas and degrees (BSc., MSc. and PhD).
For those of us who believe that TVET can’t take us very far, I have clearly stated the qualifications which could be obtained for persons who desire to develop their knowledge and skills in that area.
Vocational education is education that prepares people for a skilled craft. Vocational education can also be seen as that type of education that prepares persons to be gainfully employed or self-employed, and make a lot of money.
Indeed, TVET provides the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the economic and social life of a country. Vocational education can take place at the Primary, Secondary and tertiary levels. Vocational education can also take place in an informal setting. In the earlier years, we knew of the apprenticeship scheme whereby an individual would be placed in the workshop of a Master, skilled in a particular field or area.
At the post-secondary level, vocational education is often provided by highly specialised trade schools, technical schools, community colleges and universities. Fortunately, we can provide all those levels of training right here in St. Lucia.
The Government of Saint Lucia has introduced four TVET Secondary Schools which could provide the impetus to provide the motivation to become qualified in the areas.
In vocational education and training, one can complete a full degree in that area of competence.
In conclusion, I wish to indicate that vocational training includes welding, plumbing, electrical repair, carpentry, culinary arts, hospitality, cosmetology and health care.