For 26-year-old Marriheo Eastman, completing a Heavy Duty Machinery Operations course through the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) has changed the direction of his working life, moving him from labourer jobs into a skilled professional.
Before enrolling in the programme, Marriheo recalled how his opportunities were limited, as he often had to rely on labour work to earn an income.
However, after completing the training and becoming a certified operator, he was able to secure employment with GAFOORS.
“Before I did the programme, every time I went for a job, it was labour work or porter work, not a skilled man job. Now that I have completed this course, I am a skilled person. I got a trade where I can show that I am a certified operator,” Marriheo explained.
He further noted that the training has allowed him to improve his quality of life and better support his family.
“The work that I used to do before as a porter or labourer is less now because I got a better job. I can support my family even better,” he added.
Speaking with the Department of Public Information (DPI), Marriheo encouraged other young people to take advantage of the opportunities provided through BIT, noting that many persons have already approached him after seeing the changes the training has brought to his life.
“I have encouraged a lot of young people. They saw me turning from a porter into an operator overnight, and they asked me how I did it. I explained that the Government provided this opportunity and that it is free,” he said.
Meanwhile, 27 year old participant, Ivan Saunders, completed training in Heavy Equipment Operations, including skills in operating machinery such as the Bobcat.
While he continues to seek more opportunities directly related to his certification, Saunders said the training allowed him to gain valuable experience and improve his ability to earn an income.
“I won’t say I gained everything I wanted overall yet, but I did gain experience through the certificate and through being involved in community projects where I worked alongside the instructors,” Saunders explained.
Moreover, Saunders said the exposure gained through the programme helped him build confidence and develop practical skills that can support future employment opportunities.
The BIT training programmes form part of the government’s continued investment in skills development.
It provides persons with access to training opportunities aimed at improving employability and creating pathways towards sustainable income.
Through these initiatives, participants are being equipped with technical skills that allow them to compete for better employment opportunities while supporting themselves, their families and contributing to their communities.
Both Marriheo and Saunders encouraged other persons to explore the training opportunities available through BIT and use the skills gained as a stepping stone towards personal and professional growth.