A group of young trainees from Regions One and Four, enrolled in a government training programme, are building practical skills in capentry and welding, with one already planning to turn her training into her own business.
The trainees are based at the Kuru Kuru Training Centre (KKTC), located along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, and are producing cricket baths and school furniture in the carpentry stream, while others are welding.
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali interacted with them during a community walkabout on Saturday.
A young woman from Port Kaituma, Region One encouraged other young people to consider the programme. “Get involved so that you’ll be able to better yourself.” She also told President Ali that she is “grateful to be part of it.”
She said the skills she’s gaining will follow her home. “I plan to take my skill back to my community and help young people to better themselves, because I plan to open my own furniture shop.”
The welding group is producing goal posts as part of their coursework. Trainees said the programme has been manageable and worthwhile, with several planning to advance to Level 2 training through a partnership with School of the Nations in Georgetown.
“They need a lot of welders these days…people must be already looking for you all,” the president told the trainees.