Thirty-six trainees are now better equipped to pursue careers in the culinary industry after completing the Board of Industrial Training’s (BIT) Commercial Food Preparation Programme at the Eccles Skills Training Centre.
The four-month programme combined classroom instruction with practical training in commercial food preparation, baking, food safety, nutrition, menu planning and entrepreneurship, preparing participants for employment and self-employment opportunities.
Technical Officer at the Eccles Skills Training Centre, Grace Andrews, said the programme was designed to build not only technical skills but also discipline, confidence and professionalism among participants.
Among the graduates was 50-year-old Ulinda Softley, a small business owner, who said she enrolled to improve her culinary skills and strengthen her business.
“I have a small business that I started last year, and I thought this programme would help to enhance it. You never stop learning, and I wanted to learn new things,” Softley said.
She encouraged others, particularly school leavers and aspiring entrepreneurs, to take advantage of the government’s free skills training programmes.
“I would encourage others to take up this opportunity because you gain a certificate, learn valuable skills, and can use them throughout your life,” she said.
Humphrey also expressed interest in accessing financing through the Guyana Development Bank to further expand her business after recently acquiring a plot of land.
Meanwhile, throughout the training, participants supported several community initiatives by preparing baked goods for school fundraisers and activities hosted by the Ministry of Labour, while gaining valuable hands-on experience serving community organisations.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Suzanne Bremer described the programme as challenging but rewarding, noting that many participants successfully balanced work and family responsibilities while attending classes.
She encouraged her fellow graduates to continue pursuing skills training opportunities, saying the programme has provided a solid foundation for their future.
The graduation ceremony celebrated the achievements of the graduates and recognised the dedication of instructors, families and the Board of Industrial Training in advancing skills development across Guyana.